The Meaning in the Miracles

Book excerpt: Explanations of Jesusb miracles often get stuck in their supernatural elements, speculating whether such things could possibly have occurred. Jeffrey John argues that this is to mistake the shell for the kernel. The Gospel writers recorded the many miracles of Jesus not to provoke open-mouthed amazement but, rather, to prompt readers to seek the deeper meaning inside each of these spectacular events. A best-seller in England and now available for the first time in the United States, "The Meaning in the Miracles" is praised as a must-have guide to Jesusb miracles. John walks readers through each miracle story, providing the biblical text then offering insightful commentary that first connects the event with other biblical themes and then makes clear its meaning for today. Each discussion ends with a selection of relevant scripture passages, quotes from literature, and other material meant to aid in further personal reflection and prayer. As John shows, the stories of Jesusb miraculous works are loaded with prophetic and theological significance meant primarily to foster personal faith. By reflecting on the depths and dimensions of meaning the Gospel writers intended to convey, readers encounter afresh the One whose works of power were always a means of announcing the good news of his transforming love -- then and now. bA delight: considerable scholarship with a light touch. . . . Highly recommended.b -- "The Reader"