Exploring the Gospel of John
A study of the Gospel of John, focusing on key themes and passages.
1. The Divine Identity of Jesus
1.1 The Word Made Flesh
Verses: John 1:1-5; John 1:14
- In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
- The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, revealing God's glory.
- Jesus, the Word, is the manifestation of God in human form.
1.2 Jesus' Claims of Unity with the Father
Verses: John 10:30; John 14:9-11
- Jesus declared, 'I and my Father are one,' emphasizing His divine nature.
- Seeing Jesus is seeing the Father, demonstrating their inseparable connection.
- The works Jesus did testified to the Father's presence in Him.
1.3 The 'I AM' Statements
Verses: John 6:35; John 8:12; John 10:11; John 11:25; John 14:6; John 15:1
- Jesus used the divine name 'I AM' to reveal His eternal existence and deity.
- Each 'I AM' statement reveals a different facet of Jesus' character and role.
- These statements connect Jesus to the God of the Old Testament.
2. The Holy Spirit and the New Birth
2.1 The Promise of the Comforter
Verses: John 14:16-17; John 16:7-15
- Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, to guide believers.
- The Holy Spirit would reveal truth and glorify Jesus.
- The Spirit's presence is essential for understanding spiritual realities.
2.2 Born of Water and Spirit
Verses: John 3:3-8
- Jesus taught Nicodemus about the necessity of being born again.
- This new birth involves both water baptism and the infilling of the Holy Spirit.
- Spiritual life comes through the Spirit's power and cleansing.
3. Salvation Through Faith and Obedience
3.1 Believing in Jesus
Verses: John 3:16; John 6:47
- Eternal life is granted to those who believe in Jesus.
- Belief involves trusting in Jesus as the Son of God and Savior.
- Faith is the foundation of salvation.
3.2 Following Jesus' Commandments
Verses: John 14:15; John 15:10
- Love for Jesus is demonstrated through obedience to His commandments.
- Keeping His commandments ensures abiding in His love.
- Obedience is a vital expression of genuine faith.
4. The Importance of Love and Unity
4.1 Love One Another
Verses: John 13:34-35; John 15:12
- Jesus commanded His followers to love one another as He loved them.
- This love is a distinguishing mark of discipleship.
- Love promotes unity and harmony within the body of Christ.
4.2 Jesus' Prayer for Unity
Verses: John 17:20-23
- Jesus prayed for the unity of all believers.
- This unity reflects the unity between the Father and the Son.
- A unified church testifies to the world of God's love and power.