How to Read John

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New Christians often turn to the book of John because it spells out so clearly the basics of

the falth. Jesus proves who he is, diagnoses humanity's problems, and bluntly describes

what is necessary for conversion. You will likely recognize familiar verses and phrases in

this remarkable book (such as Jesus' "I am" sayings).

John selected seven "signs" or miracles (five of which aren't reported elsewhere) and built

a story around them. As you read John, note how the author weaves together his story and

its meaning.

It's best to read John in units. Don't just read a paragraph or a chapter. Follow the bold-

face sectional headings and read a complete section, both the action and the commentary

on it. John does not primarily relate events; he interprets those events.

Look carefully for the audiences Jesus addresses. Is he talking to his disciples? To his

opponents? To the large crowds? He treats each audience differently.

PEOPLE YOU'LL MEET IN JOHN

NICODEMAS 

ANDREW

JUDAS 

ANNAS AND CAIAPHAS 

THOMAS 

PONTIUS PILATE 

MARY MAGDALENE 

JOHN 


3-TRACK READING PLAN

TRACK 1: Two-Week Courses on the Bible

The Track 1 reading program on the Life and Teachings of Jesus includes four

chapters from John.

TRACK 2: An Overview of John in 8 Days

Day 1. Read the Introduction to John and then turn to John 3, which contains

perhaps the best-known verse in the entire Bible (verse 16). Read Jesus'

conversation with Nicodemus.

Day 2. John 5 and 6 contain Jesus' blunt teaching about who he was and

why he came to earth. Read chapter 6, noting how John weaves together a

miracle, the crowd's reaction to it, then Jesus' comments on it.

Day 3. Read chapter 10, another familiar passage.

Day 4. The next four readings are taken from John's report of the Last

Supper. Begin with chapter 14.

Day 5. Read chapter 15, where Jesus explains the image of a vine and its

branches.

Day 6. Read chapter 16, noting especially what Jesus says about the Holy

Spirit. John contains more teaching about the Holy Spirit than any other

Gospel.

Day 7. Read chapter 17, a farewell prayer Jesus prayed for his disciples

Day 8. Read John's account of Jesus' resurrection, chapter 20.

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