The Gospel of John is renowned for its
mystical and theological depth, so much so that it was known in the early
church as the “spiritual” Gospel.[1]
John’s Gospel shares a few similarities with the Synoptics, mostly Mark and
Luke, but is substantially different. While the Synoptics make Christ know by
concentrating on parables, healings, and exorcisms, John’s gospel is an independent
literary witness to Jesus Christ. The fourth Gospel was the last Gospel to be
written, but it presupposes the Gospels before it. The question then arises:
what is the Gospel’s platform and purpose?
The Gospel of John is written for believers so that they may make firm
their faith. The purpose of John’s Gospel is a direct response to Isaiah
43:8-13. The evangelist proves to be a witness to the true faith, proclaiming
Jesus with “I AM” statements and “signs.” John calls other Christians to do the
same with his deeper understanding of Jesus’ words and teachings.
The forty third chapter of the Book of
the Prophet Isaiah is a promise of redemption and restoration to Israel and can
be split into three main sections. The first section, vv 1-7, God calls his
people and proclaims that he will redeem Israel. The second section, vv 8-13,
God calls his people to witness and justify him as the Lord and truth. The
third section, vv 14-28, God makes firm that he will do this not by Israel’s
fidelity but by his mercy.[2]
The emphasis is almost entirely on Israel and the way it witnesses in both the
past and the present.[3] The
witness is precisely Saint John’s central issue for his Gospel.
