The healing of the nobleman's son is the third sign and second miracle recorded in the Gospel of John. John's Gospel records seven signs that his readers might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through His name (John 20:31). There were many other signs that Jesus did that are not recorded by John (John 20:30). Each sign performed by Jesus resulted in people believing that He was indeed the Messiah (John 3:2; 7:31; 11:45; 12:9-11, 42; 20:29). The nobleman believed after recognizing that Christ's personal presence was not necessary in order to heal his son. He heard (4:47), believed (4:50) and experienced the reality of Christ in his home (4:53). These three responses give us a picture of genuine faith. He believed the Word of God and acted upon it.