Introduction to John's Gospel

Introduction to the Gospel of John John 20:30-31 I. The background of the gospel of John A. The author B. The date C. The place II. The purpose of the gospel of John A. The stated purpose (20:30-31) 1. There are many signs not written in this book 2. These signs are written… a. That ye may believe 1) That Jesus is the Christ 2) The Son of God b. And that believing… 1) You may have life 2) In His name B. The stated content 1. A selective gospel – many signs… but these are written 2. An attested gospel – in the presence of his disciples 3. An apologetic gospel – that ye may believe 4. An interpretive gospel – that Jesus is the Christ 5. A definitive gospel – the Son of God 6. An effective gospel – that ye may have life III. The outline of the gospel of John A. Prologue (1:1-18) B. The period of consideration (1:19 - 4:54) C. The period of controversy (5:1 – 6:71) D. The period of conflict (7:1 – 11:53) E. The period of crisis (11:54 – 12:36a) F. The period of conference (12:36b – 17:26) G. The period of consummation (18:1 – 20:31) H. Epilogue (21:1-25) 1