Critical evaluation of the authorship, date, destination and purpose of John’s gospel

A Research paper

Submitted to

Dr. Saju Thomas

In partial fulfillment of the requirements of the course

A Critical Introduction to the New Testament

for the degree of Master of Theology (M. Th-I)

By

Nemmuankim

Regd. No. 2412

September 20, 2024

New Life College, Bangalore

1. John
1.1. Author
1.1.1. Internal evidence
1.1.2. External evidence
1.2. Date
1.3. Audience
1.4. Theological Purpose
1.5. Theology of John
1.5.1. Christology
1.5.2. Soteriology
1.5.3. Pneumatology

Conclusion

Bibliography

1
Introduction

The Gospel according to John, the fourth book of the New Testament, presents a
distinctive and deeply theological perspective on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of
Jesus Christ. John’s account is distinguished by its emphasis on Jesus' divine nature. The
question of authorship and likely date of composition for John's Gospel, has long been debated
among scholars. This paper will investigate the evidence of the dating and authorship of the
gospel. The intended audience of the gospel of John is another crucial aspect of its study that will
be examined. The paper will analyze the theological purpose and theology of John’s gospel.

1. John
1.1. Author
1.1.1. Internal evidence

The fourth gospel provides no explicit evidence concerning its author. but it provides
several internal clues that have led scholars to infer the identity of the author. The text suggests
the author is an idealized literary figure and the ideal Christian disciple.1 The prologue of the
gospel (1:14) implies that the author was an eyewitness to the events described. The
interpretation is confirmed by 1 John 1:1-4, where the author uses first-person to emphasize
direct experience with Jesus. This suggests a close, personal connection to the events and
teachings of Jesus. The author has a knowledge of Palestinian geography. 2

Traditionally, it is assumed that the gospel of John is written by an Apostle John, the son
of Zebedee (1:14; 19:35). Furthermore, John 13:23 identifies a beloved disciple who is
traditionally understood to be John.3 He was an eyewitness to Jesus earthly ministry, knew
Jewish life, and was an intimate friend of Jesus whom the dying Lord committed his mother
(19:25-27).4 The gospel of John does not explicitly name its author; however, the internal
evidence suggests that it was written by John the Apostle.

1
Gary M. Burge, John, The NIV Application Commentary, ed. Terry Muck (Grand Rapids, Michigan:
Zondervan Publishing Company, 2000), 26.
2
Donald Guthrie, New Testament Introduction (Illinois: Inter Varsity Press, 1970), 242, 250.
3
Andreas J. Köstenberger, John, Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament (Grand Rapids,
Michigan: Baker Academic, 2008), 6-7.
4
Kenneth O. Gangel, John, Holman New Testament Commentary (Nashville, Tennessee: Holman
Reference, 2000), 1.

2
 1.1.2. External evidence

The testimony of the early church is crucial to determining the authorship of the gospel of
John. Eusebius acknowledges the authorship of Apostle John. Origen assumed John the beloved
disciple wrote the fourth gospel and Apocalypse. Clement of Alexandria ascribed the fourth
gospel to John the apostle.5 Irenaeus extensively quoted from the gospel of John and explicitly
mentioned John as its author. His references, which include over 100 quotes from the Gospel,
reflect the early and widespread recognition of John’s authorship. In A.D. 200, Clement of
Alexandria used John’s name frequently in connection with this gospel.6 The testimony of the
early church is in harmony with the conclusion that Apostle John is the author of the fourth
gospel.

A New Testament scholar, D.A. Carson and Douglas Moo, noted John was one of the
seven who went for fishing in John 21 and is the likely author of the gospel. He is one of the sons
of Zebedee or one of the other two unnamed disciples (21:2). Since James was martyred in Acts
12:1-2, John is the only option who wrote the fourth gospel.7 Raymond Brown suggests that
Jesus and John may have been cousins through their mothers. It is why Jesus entrusted his
mother Mary to John (19:25), and Mary may have been John’s aunt. Brown also notes that
Mary’s priestly connections (John 18:15-16) might have facilitated John’s access to high priestly
circles, further supporting his role as an author closely connected to the early Jesus movement.8
The New Testament scholars give a valid reason for their support of John’s authorship.

1.2. Date

The dating of the Gospel of John varies widely, with estimates ranging from before the
fall of Jerusalem to as late as the second century. However, most scholars agree it was written
between A.D. 90 and 110.9 This timeframe is based on various reasons.

John's gospel was written probably towards the end of the first century. It was likely
written in Asia Minor, possibly in Ephesus. At this time, the church had achieved a certain level

5
William Hendriksen, John, New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Academic,
2007), 21.
Gangel, John, Holman New Testament Commentary, 1.
6

G.K. Beale and Benjamin L. Gladd, The Story Retold: A Biblical – Theological Introduction to the New
7

Testament (Downers Grove, Illinois: InterVarsity Press, 2020), 126.

8
Burge, John, The NIV Application Commentary, 27.
9
Guthrie, New Testament Introduction, 283.

3
of maturity, which necessitated a deeper and more advanced teaching on the nature of faith.10
The assumption that John wrote his gospel around A.D. 80 is supported by the fact that the fall of
Jerusalem is not mentioned, indicating that several years had passed since that event.
Additionally, it is believed that John composed his gospel after familiarizing himself with the
other three gospels.11 The fall of Jerusalem in A.D. 70, a significant event for early Christians, is
not mentioned in John’s gospel suggest, it is written not earlier than the 80s.

1.3. Audience

In the gospel of John, there is a significant use of Jewish Scripture and customs,
suggesting that the text was written for an audience familiar with these traditions. This gospel is
rich with references to themes from the Hebrew Bible, such as the Law, Sabbath, and Temple.
This indicates that while some of John's audience may have been pagans, to whom he included
explanations of Jewish customs, many were likely Jews or Jewish Christians. John’s emphasis on
Jesus as Messiah and Son of God (1:34; 7:41; 20:31) would resonate particularly with Jewish
readers. John’s interpretation of Aramaic words (1:38; 20:16) suggests an intention to Greek-
speaking Jews unfamiliar with the language.12

The intended audience of the Gospel of John was likely composed mainly of Gentile
Christians living in Ephesus and the surrounding regions. It is because John often gives an
explanation of Jewish customs and practices, such as in 2:6; 4:9; 19:31. It also explains the
circumstantial manner in which he locates places that were situated in Palestine, which can be
found in 4:5; 5:2; 6:1; 11:18; 12:1.13 It can be held that it is written for Jews and Gentiles.

1.4. Theological Purpose

The purpose of the gospel is clearly stated in John 20:30-31, which is to convey eternal
life through faith in Jesus Christ. The communication of life can be traced in the gospel through
various symbols, figures and signs such as light, wind, living water, bread and door, which are

10
Merrill C. Tenney, New Testament Survey (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing
Company, 1985), 192.
11
Hendriksen, John, New Testament Commentary, 30.
12
Ruth B. Edwards, Discovering John: Content, Interpretation, Reception (Grand Rapids, Michigan:
William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2014), 47-48.
13
Hendriksen, John, New Testament Commentary, 35.

4
some symbols by which eternal life is communicated.14 These signs point to Jesus as the one
who brings life and light into a darkened world.

John aims to convince his readers that Jesus is both divine and human, not just a
manifestation of God or a man possessed by the Spirit. John wanted to show that Jesus was not
merely an appearance of God or a man in whom dwelt the Spirit of Christ. He wanted to
convince his readers that Jesus was both God and man and that within His single person was a
perfect union of the two natures. The readers must believe in Jesus to have eternal life. 15 The
Gospel of John is intended to deepen the faith of Jewish Christians and reach unbelievers by
proclaiming Jesus of Nazareth as Israel’s Messiah and the divine Son of God, who has come to
redeem humanity and creation.16 John’s audience were call to believe in Jesus as the Son of God
in order to receive eternal life.

1.5. Theology of John

John’s gospel presents a unique approach to telling the story of Jesus. The theology of
John’s gospel such as Christology, Soteriology and Pneumatology will be demonstrated vividly.

1.5.1. Christology

Johannine Christology stands out as a defining feature of God's revelation as Father in the
fourth gospel. John begins by introducing Jesus as the "Logos" (1:1), a term unique to Johannine
literature, which underscores both Jesus' preexistence and His incarnation as the Word made
flesh. John demonstrates Jesus as the Messiah, fulfilling the Old Testament hope of a deliverer
(1:45) not politically but spiritually.17 In John 20:28, Thomas confession affirms Jesus' divine
identity. Jesus' discourse with Nicodemus (3:1-21) Jesus reveals Himself as the Son of Man from
heaven who unveils God's truth. Jesus discourse with the Jewish leaders in 5:16-47 indicates the
relationship of the Son to the Father, emphasizing the Son’s dependence on the Father and the

14
Edward Hastings, The Speakers Bible (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House1978), 7.
15
Robert G. Gromacki, New Testament Survey (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 1974), 133-
134.
Beale and Gladd, The Story Retold, 127.
16

George Eldon Ladd, A Theology of the New Testament (Grand Rapids, Michigan: William B. Eerdmans
17

Publishing Company, 1981), 238-243.

5
Son’s authority to execute judgment.18 It indicates Jesus is not merely a messenger of God, but as
God Himself in human form.

Jesus is described as the Son of God, which highlights the unique relationship of Jesus to
the Father. Jesus is described as the Son of God, emphasizing His unique relationship with the
Father and His role as God's representative. As the Son of Man, Jesus served as the judge in the
final judgment (5:27) and mediator between heaven and earth (1:51; 3:13; 6:27).19 The Samaritan
woman (John 4:19) acknowledges Jesus as a prophet after He reveals details of her life, as
prophets were believed to possess supernatural knowledge. Similarly, the man healed of
blindness acknowledges Jesus as prophet (9:17).20 The miracles reveal Jesus divine power.

1.5.2. Soteriology

In the Gospel of John, the unfolding of God's salvation plan is a central theme. The
message of the good news (3:18) highlights Jesus' crucifixion as a vital part of His mission,
which involved returning to the Father who sent Him. (17:4). This is underscored in John 17:4,
where Jesus speaks about His impending death as part of the divine plan. Christ's death was the
fulfillment of God's purpose and the mission for which He was sent, and Jesus remained
unwavering in His commitment to it.21 John’s gospel uses a rich and varied vocabulary to convey
the concept of salvation. Through Jesus, people can become children of God (3:3-5), approach
the Father (14:6), and be set free (8:32). Jesus came that people might have life (10:10). The
coming of Jesus is a demonstration of his love for humanity (3:16). His death further reveals his
divine love.22 Jesus accomplishes his mission to bring salvation to the world.

In John 17:3, the notion of eternal life summarizes the Jesus mission and the theme of the
gospel. According to John, God the Father possesses life within Himself (5:26) and has granted
the Son the same. Jesus is described as the light of the world in 8:12; 9:5 which indicates that he

18
W. Hall Harris, “A Theology of John’s Writing,” A Biblical Theology of the New Testament, ed. Roy B.
Zuck (Chicago: Moody Press, 1994), 175 ,178.
19
M. M. Thompson, “John, Gospel of,” Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels, ed. Joel B. Green and Scot
McKnight (Downers Grove, Illinois: Intervarsity Press, 1992), 378.
20
Edwards, Discovering John, 75, 84.
21
Harris, “A Theology of John’s Writings, 212-213.
22
Mark Allan Powell, Introducing the New Testament (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Academic, 2009),
184.

6
makes known the way in which people are to walk in order to have salvation.23 The purpose of
the incarnation, death and resurrection of Christ is that humankind may have life. 24 The gospel
consistently emphasizes that Jesus, the eternal Son of the Father, was sent into the world for the
world’s salvation. Jesus reveals the Father to bring salvation to the world, and this is completed
when He dies on the cross.25 The cross, therefore, is seen as the means by which God’s glory is
revealed.

1.5.4. Pneumatology

John offers extensive insights into the Holy Spirit, emphasizing its crucial role in Jesus’
relationship with God. For instance, when describing Jesus’ baptism, John emphasizes not only
that the Spirit descended upon Jesus but also that it remained with Him (1:32-33). It highlights
the permanence of God’s indwelling presence in Christ. Jesus stands out from John the Baptist
because God has given him the Spirit without measure (3:34).26 The Holy Spirit acts as a bridge
between Jesus and believers.

John’s gospel narrates the exclusive account of Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus (3:1-
10), which gives the believers information about only the Spirit can produce the spiritual birth
required for entrance into God’s kingdom. This spiritual regeneration is the work of the Holy
Spirit unaided by any human effort. John implies that Nicodemus believed that salvation could
be earned through his own external merit.27 In John 16:3, the Holy Spirit assumes the role of a
teacher, guiding the disciples into all truth by reminding them of what Jesus words. The Spirit
helps them to interpret and deepen their understanding of Jesus teachings. In relation to the world
the Holy Spirit serves as an accuser, putting the world on trial and pronouncing guilty of sin
(16:8-11).28 John presents the Holy Spirit as essential in the lives of believers, serving as both
divine empowerment and a guide to truth.

23
Thompson, “John, Gospel of,” 380-381.
24
George R. Beasley- Murray, John, Word Biblical Commentary (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2000), 85.
25
F. F. Bruce, The Gospel of John (Grand Rapids, Michigan: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company,
1983), 14.
26
Burge, John, The NIV Application Commentary, 32.
27
John MacArthur, John 1-11, The MacArthur New Testament Commentary (Chicago: Moody Publishers,
2006), 105-106.
28
Thompson, “John, Gospel of,” 382.

7
Conclusion

The analytical study of John’s Gospel demonstrated the writer of the fourth gospel is
Apostle John. He offers a more theological and reflective portrayal of Jesus, emphasizing his
divine nature. He portrayed Jesus as the Word made flesh and his unique relationship with the
Father. The Gospel is thought to have been written by John in the 80s AD, during a time of
growing challenges to early Christian communities. John likely wrote to encourage believers by
emphasizing the divinity of Christ and reinforcing their faith amidst adversity. This gospel has
laid a foundation for Christian theology and doctrine, shaping the church’s understanding of
Jesus as the eternal Son of God and the role of the Holy Spirit. John’s message provides insights
that continue to shape the Church's teachings and understanding of Jesus’ divine mission.

8
Bibliography

Books

Beale G.K., and Benjamin L. Gladd. The Story Retold: A Biblical – Theological Introduction to

the New Testament. Downers Grove, Illinois: InterVarsity Press, 2020.

Bruce, F. F. The Gospel of John. Grand Rapids, Michigan: William B. Eerdmans Publishing

Company, 1983.

Edwards, Ruth B. Discovering John: Content, Interpretation, Reception. Grand Rapids,

Michigan: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2014.

Gromacki, Robert G. New Testament Survey. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 1974.

Guthrie, Donald. New Testament Introduction. Illinois: Inter Varsity Press, 1970.

Hastings, Edward. The Speakers Bible. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 1978.

Powell, Mark Allan. Introducing the New Testament. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Academic,

2009.

Tenney, Merrill C. New Testament Survey. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans

Publishing Company, 1985.

Article in a book

Harris, W. Hall. “A Theology of John’s Writing.” A Biblical Theology of the New Testament.

Edited by Roy B. Zuck. Chicago: Moody Press, 1994.

Dictionaries

Thompson, M. M. “John, Gospel of.” Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels. Edited by Joel B.

Green and Scot McKnight. Downers Grove, Illinois: Intervarsity Press, 1992.

Commentaries

Burge, Gary M. John. The NIV Application Commentary. Edited by Terry Muck. Grand Rapids,

Michigan: Zondervan Publishing Company, 2000.

9
Gangel, Kenneth O. John. Holman New Testament Commentary. Nashville, Tennessee: Holman

Reference, 2000.

Hendriksen, William. John. New Testament Commentary. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker

Academic, 2007.

Köstenberger, Andreas J. John. Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament. Grand

Rapids, Michigan: Baker Academic, 2008.

Ladd, George Eldon. A Theology of the New Testament. Grand Rapids, Michigan: William B.

Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1981.

Murray, George R. Beasley. John, Word Biblical Commentary. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2000.

Murray, George R. Beasley. John. Word Biblical Commentary. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2000.

MacArthur, John. John 1-11. The MacArthur New Testament Commentary. Chicago: Moody

Publishers, 2006.

10