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The Gospels record the life story of Jesus. Bible readers quickly notice that Matthew, Mark, and Luke share many of the same events and focus primarily on the ministry of Jesus while in Galilee. John chose to record several events that took place in or near Jerusalem. Nearly 90% of John's Gospel is unique. Consider these phrases:
- "In the beginning was the Word..."
- "Behold the Lamb of God..."
- "For God so loved the world..."
- "I am..." phrases
- "It is finished!"
- "So send I you..."
The unique material contained in John's Gospel makes it a fascinating study.
The Gospel was written in the ancient city of Ephesus, to Christians who were under fire for their faith. Paganism and Christianity rubbed together in this city. Most times the clash of cultures was tolerated. Yet in John's later days the clash became political. This Gospel gives a record of hope and reasons for conviction to trust in Jesus as Savior no matter the circumstances.
The Gospel of John is an easy read for first-time seekers and new Christians. At the same time life-long scholars marvel at its content. Late in the Gospel, John revealed his purpose for writing. "These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believeing you may have life in his name" (20:31). The authors of this commentary have focused on John's intended message for Christians in his day, and by extension, Christians today.
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About the Authors...
Beauford H. Bryant, Ph.D., received several degrees during his college years: Johnson Bible College, B.A.; Phillips University, M.A. and B.D.; Princeton Theological Seminary, M.Th.; University of Edinburgh, Ph.D. He also studied at the University of Chicago, Harvard University, the University of Marburg, the University of Tubingen, and Oxford University.
Dr. Bryant retired from active teaching at Emmanuel School of Religion, Johnson City, Tennessee in 1994. He authored the commentary notes on the first five chapters before meeting his beloved Savior in September, 1997.
Mark S. Krause, Ph.D. was a faithful student under the leadership of Dr. Bryant. His personal relationship with Dr. Bryant made him the logical choice to finish this commentary. Dr. Krause is currently Professor of Biblical Studies and Academic Dean at Puget Sound Christian College, Edmonds, Washington. He has been awarded the following degrees: Williamette University 1973-1975; Puget Sound Christian College, B.A.; Emmanuel School of Religion, M.Div.; Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Ph.D.
About the Editors...
Anthony L. Ash, Ph.D., is professor of Biblical Studies at Abilene Christian University and minister at Minter Lane Church of Christ, Abilene, Texas. Dr. Ash holds the A.A. from Florida Christian College and the B.S. from Florida State University, the M.A. from Abilene Christian University, and the Ph.D. from the University of Southern California. He has authored several books including commentaries on Luke; Acts (Chapter 1-12); Galatians, Ephesians, Colossians; Psalm (with Clyde Miler); and Jeremiah & Lamentations. He has spoken at over 400 meetings and extended lectureships and has also spoken on over 45 college and university campuses.
Jack Cottrell, Ph.D., is professor of theology at Cincinnati Christian Seminary, Cincinnati, Ohio. He holds degrees from Cincinnati Bible Seminary (A.B.) , University of Cincinnati (A.B.), Westminster Theological Seminary (M.Div.), and Princeton Theological Seminary (Ph.D.). He has authored several books including Faith Once For All; Baptism: A Biblical Study; The Holy Spirit: A Biblical Study; and Power from On High: What the Bible Says about the Holy Spirit.
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