Introducing the Gospel of John: Its Shape, Structure, and Practical Relevance

Outline:

1. The literary structure of the Gospel of John
   • Overture / John the Baptist bears witness / Jesus calls his disciples (John 1)
     • From Cana to Cana: the Son’s first signs (John 2-4)
       • From Feast to Feast: the Son’s public ministry (John 5-10)
         • The Penultimate Sign and the Coming of the Son’s Hour (John 11-12)
       • The Final Feast: the Son’s private ministry (John 13-17)
     • From Garden to Garden: the Son’s final sign (John 18:1-20:10)
   • Jesus appears to his disciples / John the Beloved bears witness / Epilogue (John 20:11-21:25)
2. Two points of practical consideration for our church
   • The Gospel of John teaches us that life comes through death
   • The Gospel of John teaches us that glory comes through affliction