John Gospel Study Guide: Key Themes, Structure, and Significance

When was the Gospel of John written?

Between 80 to 90 AD

What styles and devices are used by John?

Irony, symbolism, metaphors, theological depth, poetic, and philosophical elements.

How did John refer to himself?

As the disciple whom Jesus loved, an eyewitness, and John the Apostle.

What are some differences between the synoptic gospels and John?

John is poetic and philosophical, set in Jerusalem, has no parables or exorcisms, a restricted number of miracles, and high christology. Synoptic Gospels have a straightforward narrative style, are set in Galilee, include parables, and have a lower christology.

What are the 7 I am Statements in John?

1. Bread of life (6:35) 2. Light of the world (8:12) 3. Gate for the sheep (10:7-9) 4. The good shepherd (10:11) 5. Resurrection and the life (11:25-26) 6. The way, the truth, and the life (14:6) 7. The true vine (15:1,5). They connect Jesus to the name Yahweh and teach about our relationship with Jesus.

What is the book of signs in John?

It is the first half of John's gospel, focusing on seven miracles/signs that prove Jesus' divinity.

What are the main themes of the Gospel of John?

The father-son relationship, the Paraclete/advocate (the Holy Spirit), God's relationship to the Church, and themes of light and dark, creation, incarnation, and Logos.

What are the different sections of the Gospel of John?

1. The Prologue (1:1-18) 2. The Book of Signs (1:19-12:50) 3. The Book of Glory (13-20) 4. The Epilogue (21).

What is the focus of the Prologue in John?

It introduces Jesus as the Word (Logos) and emphasizes his divine nature.

What is the focus of the Book of Glory in John?

It covers Jesus' passion, death, and resurrection, including the Last Supper discourse.

What is John's audience?

Jewish-Christians expelled from the synagogues after the Roman revolt.

What are the 7 Signs in the Gospel of John?

1. Turning water into wine (2:1-11) 2. Healing the official's son (4:46-54) 3. Healing the paralyzed man (5:1-18) 4. Feeding of 5000 (6:1-14) 5. Walking on water (6:15-21) 6. Healing of the man born blind (9:1-41) 7. Raising Lazarus from the dead (11:1-44).

What happens during the Last Supper discourse?

Jesus tells the Apostles he will be betrayed and washes their feet, marking a significant moment before his crucifixion.

What does the Epilogue of John include?

The appearance of Jesus to his disciples by the Sea of Galilee.