The Gospel of John: Beholding the Glory of Christ
- The Pilgrim's Post
- Feb 19
- 4 min read
Hey friends,
Today, we’re diving into the Gospel of John—a book unlike any of the other Gospels. While Matthew, Mark, and Luke give us a detailed, earthly perspective on Jesus’ life, John takes us higher, unveiling the deep, divine mystery of who Jesus is.
John’s Gospel isn’t just history—it’s theology wrapped in personal testimony. It’s an invitation to behold Christ’s glory, believe in Him, and find life in His name. If you’ve ever asked, Who is Jesus really? or How can I know God?—John answers with a resounding call to faith.
So grab your Bible, settle in, and let’s explore the beauty, depth, and purpose of John’s Gospel together.
The Purpose of John’s Gospel
Unlike the Synoptics, John doesn’t begin with a genealogy, a birth narrative, or Jesus’ baptism. Instead, he starts before time itself:
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1)
John wants us to see Jesus not just as a teacher or miracle worker, but as the eternal Word of God—fully divine, yet fully human, sent to reveal the Father and bring salvation.
Near the end of the book, John tells us exactly why he wrote:
“Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” (John 20:30-31)
John’s Gospel is evangelistic—it calls people to believe. But it’s also deeply theological, strengthening believers by revealing the majesty of Christ.
John and the Synoptic Gospels: Similarities & Differences
John stands apart from Matthew, Mark, and Luke in several ways:
Different Structure – While the Synoptics emphasize Jesus’ Galilean ministry, John focuses on His time in Judea and Jerusalem.
Unique Content – Over 90% of John’s Gospel is unique! It contains long theological discourses and interactions not found in the other Gospels.
No Parables, More Symbolism – Instead of parables, John uses rich imagery—light and darkness, water and new birth, bread and life.
Jesus’ “I Am” Statements – John uniquely records Jesus explicitly identifying Himself with God’s divine name:
“I am the bread of life” (John 6:35)
“I am the light of the world” (John 8:12)
“I am the good shepherd” (John 10:11)
“I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25)
“I am the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6)
“I am the true vine” (John 15:1)
These aren’t just metaphors; they are declarations of divinity, linking Jesus to God’s revelation in Exodus 3:14 (“I AM WHO I AM”).
Historical Context: Why Was John Written?
John likely wrote his Gospel between 85-95 A.D., after the other Gospels had already circulated. By this time, false teachings (like Gnosticism) were creeping into the church, distorting Christ’s identity. Some denied His full humanity, while others denied His full divinity.
John confronts these errors head-on, leaving no doubt that:
Jesus is fully God (“The Word was God” – John 1:1).
Jesus is fully human (“The Word became flesh” – John 1:14).
Salvation is by faith alone in Christ alone (“Whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” – John 3:16).
Defending John’s Gospel: Can We Trust It?
Absolutely. Here’s why:
Eyewitness Testimony – John was one of Jesus’ closest disciples. He personally witnessed the events he recorded (John 19:35).
Internal Consistency – John’s Gospel fits perfectly with the broader biblical narrative, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and aligning with apostolic teaching.
Early Church Acceptance – From the earliest days, the church recognized John as inspired Scripture, widely circulating it alongside the Synoptics.
Archaeological Support – Details in John, such as the Pool of Bethesda (John 5:2) and the Pavement (John 19:13), have been confirmed by archaeology.
Key Themes in John
1. The Deity of Christ
John doesn’t just tell us what Jesus did—he tells us who Jesus is.
“The Word was God.” (John 1:1)
“Before Abraham was, I am.” (John 8:58)
“I and the Father are one.” (John 10:30)
“My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28) – Thomas’ declaration of faith.
John leaves no room for a “good teacher” version of Jesus. He is God in the flesh, and to know Him is to know the Father (John 14:9).
2. The Necessity of New Birth
Jesus tells Nicodemus:
“Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3)
Salvation isn’t about religious effort—it’s about being made new. Just as we had no part in our physical birth, our spiritual birth is entirely by God’s grace (John 1:12-13).
3. The Call to Believe
John emphasizes faith more than any other Gospel—using the verb believe nearly 100 times!
“Whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
“Whoever hears my word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life.” (John 5:24)
“These are written so that you may believe.” (John 20:31)
Faith isn’t mere intellectual agreement—it’s trusting in Christ as Savior and Lord.
4. The Work of the Holy Spirit
John highlights the role of the Spirit in salvation and sanctification.
The Spirit gives new birth (John 3:5-8).
The Spirit dwells in believers (John 14:16-17).
The Spirit guides us into truth (John 16:13).
The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force but the very presence of God in us.
5. The Glory of the Cross
For John, the cross isn’t a tragedy—it’s a victory.
“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29)
“It is finished.” (John 19:30)
Jesus’ death and resurrection secure eternal life for all who believe.
Why John Still Matters Today
John’s Gospel isn’t just a book—it’s an invitation.
If you’ve never believed in Jesus, John calls you to trust Him for eternal life.
If you’re struggling with doubt, John offers certainty.
If you long to know God more deeply, John reveals His glory.
The Gospel of John stands as a radiant beacon of truth in a world filled with confusion. It calls us to behold Christ, trust Him fully, and walk in the light of His grace.
Will you believe?
Soli Deo Gloria—to God alone be the glory!
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