The final verse begins by stating that Jesus did many other things besides those recorded in the Gospel. This echoes the purpose statement near the end of John 20.
Jesus in Context
Many Other Things Which Jesus Did
John closes by reminding readers that his Gospel is selective: the written narrative represents only part of what Jesus did.
Introduction
Historical and Cultural Context
Ancient biographies and historical narratives necessarily selected from a larger body of available material. John has already told readers that Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples that were not written in the book. The final verse broadens that statement from signs to the many other things Jesus did.
The Gospel therefore presents itself as a purposeful selection rather than an attempt to provide an exhaustive day-by-day record of Jesus' life.
Why It Matters
This statement helps readers understand the nature of the Gospel. Omission does not necessarily imply ignorance or contradiction; John openly acknowledges that his written account is selective and has already stated the theological purpose guiding that selection.