The Gospel of John tells the story of Jesus. It isn’t just a story told with a “take it or leave it” kind of attitude. It was written with a purpose, which the author tells us near the end. The Gospel of John was written “so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and by believing you may have life in his name” (chapter 20 verse 31).
This “Gospel” (“Good News”) aims to commend Jesus to everyone.
It wants to persuade people of who Jesus really is and why he matters. John’s telling of the Gospel can be really simple, but it’s also very deep. It has been described as a swimming pool that is safe enough for a toddler to play in at one end, but deep enough for an elephant to swim in at the other.
More than just a teacher or a guru, Jesus is a special kingly figure (the “Christ” or “Messiah”) promised by God. He is uniquely identified with God and indeed is God (the “Son of God”).
As the introduction to this Gospel says: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God … The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:1, 14).
The author invites us to commitment and belief in this Jesus. Through him God gives people eternal life and a place in his future. As Jesus said, he himself is the way to knowing God and being loved by him.
John’s telling of the Gospel can be really simple, but it’s also very deep. It has been described as a swimming pool that is safe enough for a toddler to play in at one end, but deep enough for an elephant to swim in at the other.
The Gospel of John has four main sections:
Chapter 1:1–18 Jesus’ origin in eternity and entry into the world.
Chapter 1:19–12:50 Encounters with Jesus and seven incredible pointers to his identity.
Chapter 13:1–20:31 Final teaching, arrest, trial, death, burial, resurrection. Jesus steps into his destiny and prepares his first followers for their mission.
Chapter 21:1–25 Epilogue
The Gospel of John is part of the Bible but is often printed on its own as a booklet. If you would like to read a copy, I am willing to post you one for free – get in touch using the form below. Feel free to send through any questions about what you read.
Alternatively you can read it online through the BibleGateway website HERE.
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