I’ve decided to begin a Bible study series on the Gospel of John. Why? Well, I’m actually reading through the Book of John with my English students as part of our missionary work. Since I’m already doing the work of Bible study prep for my classes, it seemed to make sense to share what I’m learning and teaching here on Salty Gaijin. I’m learning so much through teaching this Gospel, and I want everyone to be able to understand the Book of John just as I’m coming to understand it.
I’ll break up each post into easy-to-consume sections—in line with what I’ve been doing in a single class. But first, we need a little background information.
What is a “Gospel?”
Many of you have heard the word “gospel” in some capacity. But maybe you’re unsure about what it means. Is it a type of music? Is it the story of Jesus? Is it just some books in the Bible?
Well, the word “gospel” literally means “good news.” It refers to the life of Christ, his death and sacrifice for our sins, and the salvation that we receive through Jesus. But the word “gospel”—albeit indirectly—can refer to any of the aforementioned categories. For this particular situation, though, I’m talking about some books in the Bible.
The New Testament, which canonically begins with the birth of Jesus, starts with four books that we call “the Gospels.” These books focus purely on the life of Jesus. They include:
- The Gospel of Matthew
- The Gospel of Mark
- The Gospel of Luke
- The Gospel of John
The first three books are what we call the “synoptic Gospels.” These books narrate the life of Jesus with a focus on his life events and miracles. John, however, has a different focus.
Rather than detailing the miracles of Jesus, John chooses to investigate what Jesus’ life says about God. It looks at the deeper meaning of his life.
Who is John?
But who is John, and why is he important? What makes him a reputable source?
Some people mistakenly think that John the Baptist wrote this Gospel. But the author is actually John the apostle.
Originally, he was a disciple of John the Baptist, but left to follow Jesus when he was in Galilee. John was one of the first disciples to join Jesus, and was one of the closest to Jesus. He’s often referred to as the “beloved disciple.” He later went on to teach the Gospel to others after Jesus’ death, and helped found and guide the early church. He also wrote three more letters in the New Testament: 1, 2, and 3 John.
A Theologically Rich Gospel
The apostle John teaches a rich, direct, Trinity-focused theology in his gospel and letters. John discusses the role of God as Creator and Ruler of all. He emphasizes the importance of Jesus’ place as the Son of God, and his relationship not only to the Father, but also to us. John also zeroes in on the realities of human sin, and how utterly helpless we are without the grace and mercy of God; the sacrificial, glorifying life of Jesus; and the God-given guidance and cleansing of the Holy Spirit.
John is without a doubt one of my favorite authors in the Bible, and his gospel is my favorite of the four. I only hope that you may also come to appreciate this gospel as I have.
I pray God will give me wisdom as I continue with this study and share it with my students and with you.
In Jesus’ name, amen.