And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book:

JOHN 20:30KJV
Know the Bible

John 20:30 (KJV)

What does John 20:30 mean?

John 20:30 says that Jesus did many other miraculous signs in front of his disciples that are not recorded in this book. The verse highlights that the written account does not include everything Jesus did, but only a selection.

John, the writer, is speaking directly to his readers at the end of his Gospel. He is explaining that the stories and miracles he has chosen to include are only part of what Jesus did while he was with his followers. This sets up the idea that the Gospel is a selective account, meant to convey certain truths, rather than a complete biography.

The Greek behind John 20:30

  • The word σημεῖα (sēmeia, "signs") is often used in John’s Gospel to refer to miracles that point to Jesus’ identity and purpose, not just wonders for their own sake. This word choice emphasizes that the miracles had meaning beyond the events themselves.
  • The phrase ἐνώπιον τῶν μαθητῶν αὐτοῦ (enōpion tōn mathētōn autou, "in the presence of his disciples") makes clear that these signs were witnessed by Jesus’ close followers, giving credibility to the testimony.
  • The word βιβλίῳ (bibliō, "book") refers specifically to the written Gospel, reminding readers that the account is a written selection, not an exhaustive record.

Why John 20:30 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the Gospel of John is not a complete record of Jesus’ life, but a purposeful selection of events meant to reveal who Jesus is.
  • It helps readers understand that there were many more things Jesus did, which gives a sense of the richness and depth of his ministry beyond what is written.
  • The verse prepares readers for the purpose statement in the next verse (John 20:31), explaining why these particular signs were chosen to be included.

Where else these words appear

“book” Greek G975 · used in 28 verses

  • Matthew 19:7 They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away?
  • Revelation 1:11 Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.
  • Revelation 6:14 And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places.

“signs” Greek G4592 · used in 69 verses

  • Matthew 12:38 Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee.
  • Luke 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;
  • Acts 4:30 By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.

“this” Greek G5129 · used in 87 verses

  • Matthew 8:9 For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
  • John 10:3 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:31 And they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away.

“presence” Greek G1799 · used in 89 verses

  • Luke 1:6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.
  • Acts 10:30 And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,
  • Revelation 2:14 But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.