The synoptic gospels are all similar compared to the Gospel of John. Some themes in John that stand out include: Jesus is the word of God (which is not found in any other Gospel) and the creator of the universe (1:1-5).

Many more examples in John are unique only to John: The story of Jesus turning water into wine, Jesus resurrecting Lazarus, long discourses and dialogue, specifically that with which he converses with Nicodemus (3:1-21).

Another interesting deviation is the lack of the messianic secret. Jesus doesn’t appear to hide his abilities; rather, he seems to demonstrate them as an example of who he is and his capabilities.

Jesus has a lot of “I am” statements as well. The latter verses in John in which these “I am” statements occur appear to reinforce how he is great and powerful rather than the Savior of Man, like he is portrayed in Mark. John seems to be creating a narrative in which serves to illustrate how Jesus wants people to know he’s the messiah. This is in contrast to Mark where he tells others to not reveal his coming, and is seen he denying those who ask for an example of his power or messianic status. They are then used as examples of those who do not have enough faith God.

Although, in John we see Jesus actively recruiting persons to his cause through demonstrations of power from God and performances of miracles shown as:

 

Changing water into wine in John 2:1-11 – “the first of the signs”

Healing the royal official’s son in Capernaum in John 4:46-54.

Healing the paralytic at Bethesda in John 5:1-15.

Feeding the 5000 in John 6:5-14.

Jesus’ walk on water in John 6:16-24.

Healing the man born blind in John 9:1-7.