John Flashcards
(24 cards)
Who is traditionally believed to be the author of the Gospel of John?
John the Apostle, the ‘beloved disciple’.
What does ‘high Christology’ mean?
It emphasizes Jesus’ divinity—His identity as God.
What is the traditional symbol associated with the Gospel of John?
The eagle.
When was the Gospel of John likely written?
Between 90–100 AD.
Where was the Gospel of John likely written?
Ephesus, in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey).
Who was the Gospel of John primarily written for?
A community of Jewish Christians struggling with persecution and identity.
What struggles were John’s audience likely facing?
Rejection from synagogues, persecution, and confusion about Jesus’ nature.
Does John include a genealogy of Jesus?
No; instead, it begins with a theological statement: ‘In the beginning was the Word.’
What other writings are attributed to the author of John?
1, 2, and 3 John; possibly Revelation.
What is the overarching message of John’s Gospel?
That Jesus is the eternal Son of God who brings eternal life.
What does the term ‘Logos’ mean in John 1?
‘Word’—refers to Jesus as the divine Word through whom all things were made.
What is meant by Jesus being fully human and fully divine?
Jesus has both a complete human nature and a complete divine nature.
How is John’s Gospel different in literary style?
It reads like poetry—uses metaphor, symbolism, and rhythm.
What are some opposing images used in John?
- Light/darkness
- Life/death
- Truth/falsehood
What do Jesus’ ‘I Am’ statements reveal?
His divine identity, echoing God’s name in Exodus (‘I AM WHO I AM’).
Name one of Jesus’ ‘I Am’ statements.
‘I am the Bread of Life,’ ‘I am the Light of the World,’ ‘I am the Good Shepherd,’ etc.
What is the ‘Book of Signs’ in John?
The first half of the Gospel (chapters 1–12) focusing on Jesus’ miracles.
What is the ‘Book of Glory’ in John?
The second half (chapters 13–21), focusing on Jesus’ Passion, death, and resurrection.
What is the purpose of the ‘signs’ in John?
To reveal Jesus’ divine identity and inspire belief.
What happened in the story of the woman caught in adultery?
Jesus forgives her and challenges others not to judge: ‘Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.’
What is unique about the Last Supper in John’s Gospel?
It focuses on Jesus washing the disciples’ feet, not the institution of the Eucharist.
What is ecumenism?
The movement toward Christian unity.
What is the symbolic meaning of the seamless tunic?
Unity and wholeness, especially among believers.
What is meant by saying Jesus is ‘always in control’ in John?
Even in his Passion, Jesus chooses to suffer; nothing surprises or overcomes Him.
