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Historical Context and Background:
The Gospel of John

Background on the Gospel of John

 

Author: John 21:20–24 identifies the author as “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” historically understood to be John the Apostle, son of Zebedee (Luke 5:10).

Date of Writing: Papyrus fragments dated around AD 135 confirm the Gospel was already in circulation by then. While some scholars suggest it may have been written before Jerusalem’s destruction in AD 70, the consensus places its composition around AD 85–90.

Historical Setting

  • The events are set in Palestine, under Roman rule since 63 B.C.

  • Herod the Great was appointed by Rome as king over the Jews in 37 B.C., ruling until his death in 4 B.C. His kingdom was subsequently divided among his descendants.
    (Source: ESV Global Study Bible)

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Purpose of Writing: John clearly articulates his purpose in John 20:31:

“But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.”

Rather than presenting a chronological narrative like the Synoptics (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), John emphasizes Jesus’ deity. His aims include:

  • Strengthening faith among second-generation believers

  • Inspiring belief in others

  • Addressing a false teaching that the “Christ-spirit” descended on Jesus at His baptism and departed before the crucifixion

He presents Jesus as fully God and fully human, the eternal Son of God.

 

 

Outline of the Gospel of John

  1. Prologue: The Incarnate Word (John 1:1–18)

  2. Signs of the Messiah & Teaching about Life in Him (1:19–12:50)

  3. The Farewell Teaching & Passion Narrative (13:1–20:31)

  4. Epilogue: Roles of Peter & the Beloved Disciple (21:1–25)

 

 

Core Themes: Studying Scripture is enhanced by identifying overarching themes within each book and chapter. Each chapter should reinforce the Gospel’s central message: Jesus is the Son of God and Messiah—the Savior of the world.

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Other Key Themes

  • Jesus: Divine “I Am,” preexistent, with supernatural insight. He fulfills Jewish festivals and institutions and reflects the Father.

  • The Trinity: Father, Son, and Spirit collaboratively reveal and redeem.

  • Salvation: Grounded in Jesus’ sacrificial death, accessed through faith.

  • Eternal Life: Granted through belief, with spiritual benefits now and in eternity.

  • Mission: Believers carry forward Jesus’ mission in the world.

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