1. Feedback from reading homework
Fill in the sheet with the key events of each miracle – what happened?

2. Objectives Understand the purpose of the signs in the fourth gospel
Understand the meaning/symbolism of each sign

3. Miracles vs Signs These events are often known as ‘miracles’.
A miracle is defined as a “a supernatural contradiction or violation of the laws of nature”.
The people of Jesus time would not have seen any separation between the physical and spiritual world so would not have seen these events as against nature.
Jews and early Christians thought of ‘miracles’ not as invasions from a parallel world but as special examples of God’s power within the world he created.

4. Miracles vs Signs
In the synoptic gospels, these events are referred to as dunameis – “acts of power/ mighty works”, but the writer of the fourth gospel chooses the word semeia - “signs”. What is a sign?
Dictionary definition:
1. an object, quality, or event whose presence or occurrence indicates the probable presence or occurrence of something else.
2. a gesture or action used to convey information or an instruction.

5. The Purpose of the Signs
John 2:11 What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs through which he revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him. John 20:30 Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. 31 But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

6. The meaning and symbolism of the signs
Read and take notes on the symbolism of each sign (3-4 bulletpoints for each one)
What do the signs tell us about the identity and message of Jesus?