John

Introduction

John tells us his purpose plainly: 'these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name' (20:31). He selects seven signs and seven 'I am' sayings to build the case. The prologue (1:1-18) lifts the curtain on the eternal Word who became flesh. The book is at once the simplest Gospel — short words, recurring themes — and the deepest.

Outline

1. PrologueJohn 1:1-18
2. Seven signs (public ministry)John 1:19 – 12:50
3. Upper Room DiscourseJohn 13–17
4. Passion and resurrectionJohn 18–21

Key verses

• John 1:14
• John 3:16
• John 8:32
• John 14:6
• John 20:31