Introduction to the Gospel of John

Overview

How is God’s word relevant to men and women today?

The only way to find the answer to this question is to put up the Bible and read it. The beginning of all great journeys starts with the first step. The Gospel of John helps us understand God’s heart and Christ’s mind.

The Gospel of John is a unique and profound account within the New Testament, distinguished by its theological depth and spiritual insight. Unlike the Synoptic Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—John’s narrative presents a reflective and intimate portrayal of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His divine nature and eternal preexistence.

John wrote the Gospel with eloquence and theological precision, inviting readers into a deeper understanding of Jesus as the Word made flesh and offering eternal life to all who believe.

Tradition attributes the Gospel of John to John the Apostle, Jesus’ beloved disciple. The Gospel of John was written in Ephesus between 85 and 95 AD. John, one of the Twelve Apostles, composed this Gospel towards the end of his life, drawing from his personal experiences and unique perspective on Jesus’ ministry.

The early Church Fathers, including Irenaeus and Clement of Alexandria, supported this attribution, reinforcing its authenticity and significance within the Christian canon.

It’s important to remember that John, the Apostle and beloved of Christ, died at the ripe old age of 90. The Holy Spirit led him to write this gospel, four letters, and Christ’s revelation to the Church. When he wrote this fourth gospel, he lost all his fellow apostles and grieved at Paul’s death.

Jesus Himself entrusted the care of his mother to him.

John is a credible witness, and we know he was:

Leader among the twelve.
In the inner circle of Jesus’ closest friends.
Banished to the Isle of Patmos under the reign of Domitian.
Was beloved of the Lord

Purpose and Themes

The primary purpose for writing this gospel was to inform, counsel, and instruct the second and third generation of Christians who needed a defense against false teaching inside the church and the growing opposition/persecution of the outside.

Today, we’ve seen a surge of false teaching and an unashamed increase in opposition to authentic Christianity. I believe this is more than a sign of the end times, but a more demonic attack against believers. The more we believers shun the word of God and intimacy with Him, the more effective Satan’s win over souls.

We need what the Gospel of John offers.

John’s narrative is rich with themes highlighting Christ’s divine nature, incarnation, and role as the giver of life and light. The primary purpose of the Gospel of John is to inspire us to believe in Christ Jesus as the Son of God and, in that belief, receive eternal life.

Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. 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. John 20:20-31

Key themes include:

Divinity of Christ: John emphasizes Jesus’ divine nature from the outset, with the profound declaration, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1).
Incarnation: The concept of the Word becoming flesh (John 1:14) is central to John’s Gospel, illustrating the profound mystery of God taking human form to dwell among us.
Light and Life: Jesus is portrayed as the Light of the World and the giver of eternal life, guiding believers out of spiritual darkness and into the fullness of life.
Signs and Miracles: The Gospel recounts seven miraculous signs performed by Jesus, each revealing His divine authority and power, culminating in the resurrection of Lazarus.
Faith and Belief: The narrative continually calls readers to believe in Jesus, stressing the transformative power of faith in Him.

Structure and Content

Four distinct sections comprise the Gospel of John.

Prologue (John 1:1-18)

The prologue sets the theological foundation for the Gospel, introducing Jesus as the eternal Word, the Creator, and the source of life and light. It establishes Christ’s divinity and incarnation, preparing readers for the following profound truths.

The Book of Signs (John 1:19-12:50)

This section details Jesus’ public ministry, highlighting seven significant signs that reveal His divine nature and mission. These signs include turning water into wine, healing the sick, feeding the 5,000, and raising Lazarus from the dead. Each miracle serves as a testament to His authority and invites belief in His name.

The Book of Glory (John 13:1-20:31)

Focusing on the final week of Jesus’ life, this section offers an intimate look at His interactions with His disciples, His teachings, and the events leading up to His crucifixion and resurrection. It emphasizes Jesus’ love for His followers, sacrificial death, and ultimate triumph over death.

Epilogue (John 21:1-25)

The epilogue provides a post-resurrection appearance of Jesus, reinforcing His continued presence and mission. It includes the reinstatement of Peter and offers a final exhortation to follow Jesus faithfully.

Theological Significance

The Gospel of John is a cornerstone of Christian theology, offering profound insights into the nature of Christ and the relationship between God and humanity. Its emphasis on Jesus’ divinity, incarnation, and redemptive work provides a rich foundation for understanding the Christian faith. John’s narrative invites readers into a transformative encounter with Jesus, challenging them to fully embrace His light and life.

Conclusion

Exploring the depths of the Gospel of John’s theological and spiritual richness awaits those who delve into it.

Whether through its profound prologue, the miraculous signs, or the intimate teachings of Jesus, the Gospel of John stands as a testament to the divine love and eternal life offered through Christ.

It is a Gospel that informs the mind and transforms the heart, calling believers to a deeper faith and a closer walk with the Savior.

“Last of all, John perceiving that bodily facts had been made plain in the gospel… composed a spiritual gospel.” ~ Irenaeus – First Christian writer to compose an extensive “History of the Church,” covering the entire period from the first Apostles down to his day (around 130 to 202 AD) in ten volumes