Written by John in Ephesus (?), c. AD 90
John explicitly states that he wrote so that the reader will have a basis to believe that Jesus is the Christ, in order to have “life” (20:31): both eternal life and a unique quality of life today. John’s gospel is also an apologetic against Judaism and incipient gnosticism, and supplies information not found in the other gospels.
Chapters 1:1-18 Prologue
John identifies Jesus as the “word” who is God, who is the creator, and who reveals God to all. While others brought revelation, only through the incarnation of the “word” came “grace and truth.”
Chapters 1:19—12:50 Public Ministry
Seven miraculous signs punctuate Christ’s public ministry, verifying the truthfulness of His message. These signs unequivocally prove that Jesus is the Christ, and through Him comes life (the seventh being the raising of Lazarus from the dead, 11:1-45). John’s invitation, “whosoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life,” can certainly be trusted.
Chapters 13:1—17:26 Private Ministry (Upper Room Discourse)
The “life” Jesus offers not only includes eternal life, but also a unique quality of life through the blessing of being united to God. Further, He will send the Holy Spirit to empower His disciples to live this life (14:15-26) and enjoy victory in the world because of His victorious overcoming of the world (16:28-33). The section ends with Jesus praying for the continued growth of his disciples (17:1-26).
Chapters 18:1—2-:31 Passion and Resurrection
Only by His conciliation are the Roman soldiers able to arrest and take Jesus into custody (18:1-11). Through the trials and crucifixion this record shows that, although brutal, it is Jesus who is in control. Even Pilate is used by God to affirm that Jesus “is the King of the Jews” (19:19). Jesus, now resurrected, reminds the hiding disciples that they will not be sent into the world alone, but with the Holy Spirit.
Chapters 21:1-25 Epilogue
Even after death Jesus is the same person, with power (20:1-14), and compassion (20:15-20). He instructs Peter to carry out His commission, and “follow me.” This gospel ends with an affirmation of its truthfulness.
Quine's View of the Key Verse: John 20:30-31
“Many other signs Jesus therefore also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book, but these have been written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name.”
