The book of John
The Book of John
What is the book of John about?
The book of John is rather different from the other three Gospels. It continues to be debated whether or not he knew any one of them. The difference in John's Gospel is that he highlights matters that are underdeveloped in the others. He focuses on the "signs" of Jesus' identity and mission.
John begins with the profound announcement that Jesus is the divine "Word" of self-revelation - who existed with God from the beginning and through whom God created all things. Jesus became embodied (incarnated) as a human being to be the light of life for the world. After this comes the proclamation that Jesus is the Son of God sent from the Father to finish the Father's work in the world.
The famous words in John 3:16 summarize it all: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
Who wrote the book of John?
The author of John is John himself, brother of James and son of Zebedee.
Who is the audience?
Primarily Gentile believers and seeking unbelievers.
Timeframe John was written:
Written sometime between 50-85 AD.
"In short" (One sentence summary):
The book of John presents Jesus as the Word, the Messiah, and the Son of God, who has come to reveal the Father and bring eternal like to all who believe in him.
Fun facts about John/Did you know?
The book of John stands alone from the "synoptic Gospels" (Matthew, Mark, and Luke). John focuses more on Jesus' reasons for coming to earth. He also gives emphasis to Jesus' patient treatment of the disciples Thomas (who doubted the resurrection) and Peter (who had denied the Lord).
