Day 4

John

from the This Is the New Testament reading plan


John 1:1-18, John 5:17-23, Genesis 1:1-5, Revelation 1:4-8

BY She Reads Truth

This Is the New Testament is part of a twelve-week thematic overview of the entire Bible. As we read, we’ll gain a broader understanding of the redemptive story of Scripture. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. 

What Is John? About 90 percent of the material in the Gospel of John is unique to this book of the Bible. John, a disciple of Jesus, highlighted Jesus’s identity as the Son who reveals the nature of God the Father. He also points to how Jesus fulfills Old Testament prophecy, festivals, and institutions. 

How John Fits Into the Story: Of all the New Testament books, the Gospel of John most clearly teaches the divine identity of Christ. Rather than focusing on the miracles, parables, and public speeches that are so prominent in the other Gospel accounts, John emphasizes the identity of Jesus as the Son of God and His invitation to respond in faith.

Reflection Questions: 
1. How does Jesus describe His relationship to God the Father in today’s reading? How do these passages broaden or change your understanding of who Jesus is?
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?

Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.

Post Comments (66)

66 thoughts on "John"

  1. Angela White says:

    It’s so beautiful how John focuses on Christ’s identity while the other gospels focus on his actions.

  2. Bridget Vaschak says:

    Jesus describes his relationship with God the Father as being one of love and mutuality. He was completely in step with His Father. They are distinct and separate yet totally the same and together… and THAT is the beautiful mystery of our faith.

    The story of redemption is God’s story. He offers redemption and we either accept and receive it or not. Jesus is God’s beautiful offer of redemption. Redemption Incarnate.

    1. Anne Stock says:

      Love and mutuality. Well-put. I was struggling to find the words, but you did. Thank you

  3. Erica Chiarelli says:

    While other Gospels start with Jesus’ birth, John recognizes before Jesus’birth, He still was. And Jesus first sacrifice was stepping out of heaven and becoming man. Imagine Jesus in Mary’s belly, the Son of God who created all there was & is & ever will be. He put the stars together, holds the universe & all there is, in place, yet became a humble babe, born to some “nobodies”. The angels announced His birth to shepherds, more “nobodies”. To be our Savior, so we can know our God! So so amazing!!!!

  4. GramsieSue . says:

    What great insight you sisters have. John has always been one of my favorite books in the Bible and I ve memorized many passages. Thank you SRT for these studies in both the Old and New Testament.
    I have felt your prayers, pain in my brain is almost gone! Still have a bit of brain scramble but I’m told that will improve. Tomorrow morning I will have a CT scan to determine if the bleeding is over and blood drained away. I would appreciate all prayers. ❤️

  5. Cynthia Johnston says:

    I recommend Abby Ross Hutto’s book, God for Us. She takes us through the book of John sharing different ways we may have felt in life and how through Jesus we have the heart of the Father.

  6. Paula Evans says:

    I am replying to your post from two days ago Angie. I have not posted before but I just had to tell you that God has used you to help my husband who has been suffering from severe muscle contracture following a stroke he had a year ago. Like you he has been unable to sleep for weeks due to severe pain waking him up every two hours or so. He is exhausted both from the pain and trying different remedies to no effect. After showing him your post he asked his physiotherapist about a muscle relaxer and she is in agreement. We are so thankful to have found a solution but more than that we are so grateful that God is leading us step by step and not leaving him in pain. I know that it was God that prompted me to read your post two days late on the very day he was to see his physiotherapist. Thank you Lord and thank you Angie!

    1. Victoria E says:

      Great news Paula Evans!

  7. Heidi V says:

    I did the Romans study and Psalms of Rest study instead of the Old Testament study and am noticing that Churchmouse seems to be missing. I have always valued and enjoyed her contributions very much. Has she shared any information or prayer requests that anyone could pass on?

  8. Heidi V says:

    Thanks! That was helpful, that verse stood out to me as well-

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *