John, The Gospel of Belief

Week 1 — Why John? Purpose, themes, and how to read this Gospel.

Why John?

Explain the difference between the synoptic gospels and John’s didactic gospel. (Synoptic= overview Didactic= teaching).

1. Key differences between John and the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke)

1) Style and structure

Long, theological discourses and extended dialogues (e.g., John 3; 4; 6; 13–17).John: 

Shorter sayings, parables, and rapid narrative movement (especially Mark).Synoptics: 

2) Purpose statement

Explicit aim: “that you may believe… and have life” (John 20:30–31).John: 

No comparably direct purpose statement (though themes are clear).Synoptics: 

3) Timeline and geography

Multiple trips to Jerusalem; ministry spans several festivals/Passovers (implying ~3 years).John: 

Narrative concentrates heavily on Galilee with a major final journey to Jerusalem (often read as ~1 year, though not required).Synoptics: 

4) Jesus’ identity is stated more directly

Strong, explicit claims about preexistence and unity with the Father; frequent “I am” sayings.John: 

Identity revealed more through actions/titles and often with more “messianic secrecy” (notably in Mark).Synoptics: 

5) Different set of hallmark miracles

Select “signs” with interpretive teaching (e.g., Cana water-to-wine, healing at Bethesda, man born blind, Lazarus).John: 

Larger volume and wider variety (many exorcisms, numerous healings);.Synoptics:  exorcisms are prominent

6) Parables vs symbolic teaching

Few/no classic parables; uses(“bread,” “light,” “vine,” “shepherd”) and acted signs.John:  metaphors 

Many parables (kingdom parables are central).Synoptics: 

7) Kingdom of God language

“Kingdom of God” appears rarely (notably John 3); emphasis on, belief, abiding.John:  eternal life

“Kingdom of God/Heaven” is a dominant theme and phrase.Synoptics: 

8) Holy Spirit emphasis

Detailed teaching on the Spirit as(John 14–16).John:  Paraclete/Helper 

Strong Spirit emphasis too, but less extended “Spirit discourse” material.Synoptics: 

9) Christology vocabulary

“Word (Logos),” “only Son,” “from above,” “glory,” “truth,” “life,” “light/darkness.”John: 

More frequent “Son of Man,” “Messiah/Christ,” kingdom proclamation framing.Synoptics: 

10) Cleansing of the temple placement

Early (John 2).John: 

Late, in the final week (Matt 21/Mark 11/Luke 19).Synoptics: 

11) Last Supper / Eucharist emphasis

No “This is my body… this is my blood” institution narrative; insteadand extensive farewell teaching (John 13–17).John:  foot-washing 

Include the institution of the Lord’s Supper prominently.Synoptics: 

12) Baptism and temptation narratives

No direct narration of Jesus’ baptism or wilderness temptation (though John the Baptist testifies to Jesus).John: 

Both are key opening events.Synoptics: 

13) Exorcisms

None explicitly narrated.John: 

Frequent and programmatic.Synoptics: 

14) Resurrection appearances and commissioning

Distinct scenes (Mary Magdalene in the garden; Thomas; John 21 with Peter’s restoration).John: 

Different appearance sets and emphases (e.g., Galilee commissioning in Matthew; Emmaus in Luke).Synoptics: 

15) Unique characters and episodes

Nicodemus, Samaritan woman, Lazarus/Mary/Martha, man born blind, “Beloved Disciple,” Cana.John: 

Many episodes John omits (transfiguration, many parables, many exorcisms, etc.).Synoptics: 

2. Key Themes In John’s Gospel

Word/Logos, belief, life, light/darkness, “signs,” glory, witness.

Discussion:

What do you think you will learn from John’s gospel?

What kind of belief do you think John means?

What does eternal life mean? Why do you think it was important to John?