The Gospel of John presents Jesus as the eternal Son of God who became flesh to bring light, life, and salvation to the world. John focuses on the identity of Jesus rather than repeating the Synoptic accounts, highlighting seven signs, deep theological truths, and intimate conversations. The book emphasizes belief, love, truth, and the call to eternal life through Christ.
Background
Author: John, the apostle
Audience: Believers and seekers throughout the early church
Date: AD 85–95
Location Written: Likely Ephesus
Context: John wrote to strengthen the faith of believers and to clearly show that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Facing growing false teachings and confusion about Jesus’ identity, John presents eyewitness testimony with theological depth. The Gospel uses signs, discourses, and personal encounters to reveal Jesus’ divine authority and His mission to bring eternal life.
Characters
- Jesus — Son of God who reveals the Father and brings eternal life
- John the Apostle — author and eyewitness emphasizing belief in Christ
- John the Baptist — forerunner testifying that Jesus is the Lamb of God
- Nicodemus — religious leader seeking truth about new birth
- Samaritan Woman — outsider transformed by Jesus’ offer of living water
- Mary, Martha, and Lazarus — close friends illustrating Jesus’ love and power
- The Twelve Disciples — followers learning from Jesus and witnessing His signs
- Jewish Leaders — opponents resisting and plotting against Jesus
- Mary Magdalene — first witness of the resurrection
Major Events
- Prologue introducing Jesus as the Word made flesh (Chapter 1)
- John the Baptist’s testimony and the calling of the first disciples (Chapter 1)
- Wedding at Cana, the first sign (Chapter 2)
- Jesus and Nicodemus discussing new birth (Chapter 3)
- Conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well (Chapter 4)
- Healing miracles and conflicts with religious leaders (Chapters 5–9)
- Feeding of the five thousand and the Bread of Life discourse (Chapter 6)
- Jesus declares Himself the Light of the World (Chapter 8)
- Raising of Lazarus from the dead (Chapter 11)
- Triumphal entry and final teachings (Chapters 12–17)
- Arrest, trial, and crucifixion of Jesus (Chapters 18–19)
- Resurrection and appearances to the disciples (Chapters 20–21)
Application & Life Lessons
- Jesus is fully God and the source of eternal life
- True belief transforms the heart and leads to obedience
- Jesus meets people personally in their doubts and questions
- God offers living water that satisfies spiritual thirst
- Light overcomes darkness and reveals truth
- Love is the defining mark of Jesus’ followers
- Jesus is the resurrection and the life, giving hope beyond death
- Abiding in Christ produces lasting fruit and deep joy
Bible Study Videos
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of John 1-12
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of John 12-21
Sermons & Teachings
Sermon by Skip Heitzig offering a brief overview of John
Podcasts
- Related Podcasts Coming Soon
Articles
- Related Articles Coming Soon
Bible Reading Plans
- Related Bible Reading Plans Coming Soon
Books
This section may contain affiliate links
- Related Books Coming Soon
Related Blog Posts
Related Blog Posts Coming Soon
Disclosures & Notices
Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.