Andreas J. Köstenberger, "Signs of the Messiah: An Introduction to John’s Gospel" (Lexham Press, 2021)
May 13, 2021
27:45
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Veteran New Testament scholar Andreas J. Köstenberger discusses the plot and message of John's Gospel, inspiring faith in Jesus through his mighty signs. He highlights the significance of signs revealing Jesus' identity as the Messiah and Son of God. The discussion delves into the authorship of John's Gospel and explores the Messianic signs leading to Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection.
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Quick takeaways
John's Gospel aims to inspire faith in Jesus through its emphasis on his signs as Messianic symbols.
Understanding the Festival Cycle in John 5-10 can provide insights into attitudes of belief and unbelief towards Jesus' signs.
Deep dives
Importance of Authorship in Understanding John's Gospel
Authorship in John's Gospel is crucial for interpreting it correctly, with traditional belief attributing it to John, the son of Zebedee, an apostle of Jesus. The Gospel is written to inspire faith in Jesus, presenting a firsthand account of important events in Jesus' life. The authorship debate holds significance in understanding the Gospel's theological message and credibility, especially in the portrayal of Jesus' signs and identity.
Signs as Crucial Elements in John's Gospel
John's Gospel emphasizes Jesus' signs as Messianic symbols that reveal his identity and purpose. The signs, distinct from mere miracles, symbolize Jesus as the Messiah, such as feeding the multitude to signify himself as the bread of life. Various beneficial responses to the signs in John's Gospel showcase contrasting attitudes of belief and unbelief, highlighting their spiritual significance.
Significance of the Festival Cycle in John's Gospel
The Festival Cycle in John 5-10 presents a sequence of events revolving around Jewish feasts, introducing three significant signs. These signs, including the healing of the lame, feeding of the 5000, and healing of the man born blind, illustrate responses to Jesus' signs. The contrasting responses of individuals in these cycles serve as models for understanding faith and disbelief in relation to Jesus' Messianic signs.
In Signs of the Messiah: An Introduction to John’s Gospel (Lexham Press, 2021), Andreas J. Köstenberger—veteran New Testament scholar and expert on the Gospel of John—guides readers through John and highlights its plot and message. John’s Gospel is written to inspire faith in Jesus. By keeping the Gospel’s big picture in view, readers will see Jesus’ mighty signs and be compelled to trust more fully in the Messiah. Readers will have a deeper grasp of John’s message and intent through this short and accessible introduction.
Jonathan Wright is a PhD student in New Testament at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He can be reached at jonrichwright@gmail.com, on Twitter @jonrichwright, or jonathanrichardwright.com.