John Summary
In the beginning of this book John gives a more of an introduction than the other synoptic gospels did. Although there are some similar stories told in John and the synoptic gospels, there are several tales that are unique to John, such as when Jesus transforms water into wine. Chapter 3 is very well written to encourage faith, as are verses 8:12-59. Chapter 19 tells a crucifixion story similar to that of the synoptic gospels, but had a little more detailed information and gave more explanations.
Unique elements
- Radically different from synoptic gospels
- Primordial introduction
- No exorcisms
- Only 7 signs (miracles). Many in synoptic
- Enigmatic “beloved disciple”
- Eternal life (opposed to kingdom of heaven/God)
- No parables, have “I am” instead
- Double entendres of Jesus’ speech (and word play)
Historical criticism
Terminus ad quem- 125 CE
Terminus a quo- 70 CE
-Uses synoptic tradition in composition, ten percent overlap
Date of composition- 70-110 CE
Terminus ad quem
125 CE
Terminus a quo
70 CE
Date of composition
70-110 CE
Literary criticism: The Father
- Only speaks once, John 12
- Hardly any acts
- Known only through Jesus (John 14)
- Jesus does the Father’s work
- Jesus doesn’t use own words, but Father’s
Literary criticism: Jesus
- flat (doesn’t change), but IDEAL
1. Central character, almost all interactions involve Him
2. Static, no growth or change
3. Characters all different, and therefore have different interactions
Literary criticism: Disciples
- Ideal reader in there belief in Jesus
Literary criticism: Jews
- Have not read and not believed
2. Heard but misunderstood and rejected
