Traditional Author
John, one of the twelve apostles and a member of Jesus' inner circle alongside Peter and James.
Books of the Bible
The Gospel of John
Discovering Jesus Christ Through the Gospel of John
Welcome
Come and See Jesus
If someone asked where to begin reading the Bible, the Gospel of John would be one of my first recommendations.
John introduces us to Jesus Christ in a deeply personal way. Throughout this Gospel we witness His compassion, His authority, His miracles, His teachings, His death, His resurrection, and His invitation for every person to believe in Him.
This study is not intended to replace reading Scripture. Rather, it is designed to encourage you to open your Bible, read the Gospel carefully, and discover for yourself what John reveals about Jesus Christ.
As you work through this study, return often to one simple question.
Who does John reveal Jesus Christ to be?
Allow God's Word to answer that question, and let the Holy Ghost guide your understanding as you seek Him through the Scriptures.
About This Book
Getting to Know the Gospel of John
The Gospel of John is the fourth book of the New Testament and one of the four Gospel accounts that record the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. While each Gospel presents a unique perspective, John carefully selects events and teachings that encourage readers to believe in Jesus Christ and find life through His name.
Rather than attempting to record every event of Jesus' earthly ministry, John focuses on carefully chosen signs, conversations, and teachings that reveal the identity of Jesus Christ. As you study this Gospel, take your time, read each passage within its context, and allow Scripture to interpret Scripture.
Testament
New Testament
Literary Genre
Gospel
Chapters
21 Chapters
Central Purpose
To lead readers to believe that Jesus is the Christ and to find life through His name.
Key Verse
John 20:30–31
Why John Wrote This Gospel
The Purpose of the Book
Unlike many ancient writings, the Gospel of John clearly tells us why it was written. Near the conclusion of the book, John explains that he selected particular signs and testimonies so that readers might believe in Jesus Christ.
And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.John 20:30–31
As you continue reading, keep this purpose in mind. Every miracle, every conversation, every teaching, and every sign recorded by John contributes to his overall message. Ask yourself how each passage helps you better understand Jesus Christ and strengthens your faith in Him.
Before You Begin
Preparing to Study the Gospel of John
Pray First
Ask God to give you understanding, wisdom, and a heart that is ready to receive His Word.
Read Slowly
Take your time with each chapter. There is no need to rush through the Gospel.
Keep Notes
Write down verses, questions, observations, and truths that stand out as you read.
Look for Jesus
As you read, continually ask yourself, "What does this passage reveal about Jesus Christ?"
The Seven Signs
Miracles That Reveal Jesus Christ
John refers to these miracles as signs because they point beyond the miracle itself. Each one reveals something about the identity, authority, compassion, and glory of Jesus Christ. As you read these passages, ask yourself not only what happened, but what John wants you to understand about the Savior.
Water into Wine
John 2:1–11
Jesus performs His first recorded sign at a wedding in Cana, revealing His glory and demonstrating that He is able to transform what is ordinary into something new.
Read John 2Healing the Nobleman's Son
John 4:46–54
Jesus heals with nothing more than His spoken word, demonstrating His authority and calling people to trust Him even when they cannot yet see the outcome.
Read John 4Healing at Bethesda
John 5:1–15
After many years of suffering, a man is restored by the command of Jesus, revealing His compassion and authority over sickness.
Read John 5Feeding the Five Thousand
John 6:1–14
Jesus provides abundantly for a great crowd, preparing the way for His teaching that He is the Bread of Life.
Read John 6Walking on the Sea
John 6:16–21
In the midst of fear and uncertainty, Jesus comes to His disciples and brings peace, demonstrating His authority over creation.
Read John 6Healing the Man Born Blind
John 9
Jesus gives sight to a man born blind, revealing Himself as the Light of the World and opening both physical and spiritual eyes.
Read John 9Raising Lazarus
John 11
Jesus calls Lazarus from the tomb, revealing His authority over death and declaring that He is the Resurrection and the Life.
Read John 11The Great "I Am" Statements
How Jesus Reveals Himself
Throughout the Gospel of John, Jesus uses a series of memorable "I am" statements to teach His disciples and those around Him. Each declaration reveals something about His character, His mission, and the relationship He desires to have with those who follow Him. As you read these passages, consider what each statement teaches about Jesus Christ and what it means for your own life.
"I Am the Bread of Life"
John 6:35
Jesus alone satisfies the deepest hunger of the human heart and offers eternal life to those who come to Him in faith.
Read John 6"I Am the Light of the World"
John 8:12
Jesus brings light into spiritual darkness and guides those who follow Him in truth.
Read John 8"I Am the Door"
John 10:7–9
Jesus describes Himself as the door through which His sheep enter to find safety, salvation, and abundant life.
Read John 10"I Am the Good Shepherd"
John 10:11
Jesus knows His sheep, lovingly cares for them, and willingly lays down His life for them.
Read John 10"I Am the Resurrection and the Life"
John 11:25
Jesus offers hope beyond the grave and declares that life is found in Him.
Read John 11"I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life"
John 14:6
Jesus teaches that He is the way to the Father, the source of truth, and the giver of eternal life.
Read John 14"I Am the True Vine"
John 15:1–5
Jesus calls His followers to remain in Him, reminding them that lasting spiritual fruit comes through abiding in Him.
Read John 15Names and Titles of Jesus
How John Describes the Savior
Throughout the Gospel, Jesus is identified by many names and titles. Each one reveals something about His person, His mission, and His relationship with those who believe in Him. As you read John's Gospel, pay attention to these descriptions and consider what each teaches about Jesus Christ.
The Word
John 1:1, 14
John begins his Gospel by introducing Jesus as the eternal Word, revealing God's self disclosure to humanity.
Read John 1The Lamb of God
John 1:29
John the Baptist points to Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
Read John 1Rabbi
John 1:38
Jesus is recognized as a Teacher whose words lead people toward the truth.
Read John 1Messiah
John 1:41
Andrew joyfully announces that they have found the Messiah, the Anointed One promised throughout the Scriptures.
Read John 1Son of God
John 1:34, 20:31
Throughout the Gospel, Jesus is identified as the Son of God, inviting readers to consider His identity and place their faith in Him.
Read John 20King of Israel
John 1:49
Nathanael recognizes Jesus as the promised King, fulfilling Israel's hope for the coming Messiah.
Read John 1Savior of the World
John 4:42
The people of Samaria testify that Jesus is the Savior of the world after hearing Him for themselves.
Read John 4Lord
John 20:28
Thomas responds to the risen Christ with a confession that stands among the climactic moments of John's Gospel.
Read John 20Pause and Reflect
Questions to Consider
Before continuing, spend a few moments reflecting on what you have learned so far.
Who is Jesus?
As you have read through these names and titles, what picture of Jesus Christ is emerging from John's Gospel?
What Stands Out?
Which sign, title, or statement has most captured your attention, and why?
Keep Reading
As you continue through the Gospel, look for additional details that reveal the character, authority, compassion, and mission of Jesus Christ.
Key Passages
Verses to Read and Remember
The Gospel of John contains many memorable passages that have encouraged believers throughout history. While every chapter is important, these passages provide an excellent place to slow down, meditate on God's Word, and continue discovering Jesus Christ.
John 1:1–18
The opening of John's Gospel introduces the eternal Word and prepares readers for everything that follows.
Read John 1John 3
Jesus speaks with Nicodemus about being born again and God's love for the world.
Read John 3John 10
Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep and gives His life for them.
Read John 10John 14
Jesus comforts His disciples and prepares them for what is to come.
Read John 14John 17
Jesus prays for His disciples and for those who will believe through their message.
Read John 17John 20
The resurrection of Jesus Christ and John's purpose for writing this Gospel.
Read John 20Reading Guide
How to Study the Gospel of John
Begin with Prayer
Ask God to give you wisdom, understanding, and a heart that is willing to receive His Word.
Read the Whole Chapter
Rather than focusing only on individual verses, read each chapter in its entirety to better understand the context.
Observe Carefully
Notice what Jesus says, what He does, how people respond to Him, and what John emphasizes throughout the Gospel.
Compare Scripture
Allow the Bible to explain itself by comparing related passages throughout Scripture.
Write Your Observations
Keep a journal of verses, questions, and truths that stand out as you read.
Apply God's Word
Ask how each passage encourages you to trust Jesus Christ more completely and live according to His Word.
Study Companion
Continue Reading the Gospel of John
This guide is intended to accompany your personal Bible reading rather than replace it. I encourage you to read the entire Gospel of John, one chapter at a time, allowing God's Word to speak for itself.
If you would like to continue reading online, compare translations, or listen to an audio Bible, Bible.com provides an excellent companion resource for your study.
A Prayer Before You Read
Lord, Open My Understanding
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for giving us Your Word. As I open the Gospel of John, help me to read with humility, wisdom, and a sincere desire to know You more. Remove distractions from my heart and help me understand what You have revealed through the Scriptures.
Teach me through the life, words, miracles, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Strengthen my faith, increase my love for You, and help me live according to Your truth each day.
May Your Holy Ghost guide me into all truth as I continue seeking You through Your Word.
In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Continue Your Journey
Keep Studying God's Word
The Gospel of John is only one part of God's wonderful story of redemption. Continue reading, continue studying, and continue growing in your relationship with Jesus Christ through the Scriptures.
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