John
The Orthodox Church views the Gospel of John as a "theological gospel" due to its deep, spiritual, and christological content, often seen as supplementary to the Synoptic Gospels. It is considered the last gospel written, likely by the Apostle John, one of the original twelve apostles and the "beloved disciple". John is known as "the Theologian" because of the gospel's emphasis on Jesus as the divine Logos (Word) who became flesh, making God known to humanity. This gospel is unique in its style, focusing on debates, allegorical narratives like the "I AM" sayings, and a three-year ministry timeline that culminates in the Eucharist. It is the first gospel read in the Orthodox lectionary, beginning at Pascha (Easter) night.
Key aspects of the Orthodox perspective on the Gospel of John:
Theological Depth: John's Gospel is seen as a more profound, spiritual work than the Synoptics. It is considered a theological work for those being initiated into the faith through the sacraments.
Authorship and Authority: The gospel is attributed to the Apostle John, one of the twelve, who was an eyewitness to Christ's life and ministry. His eyewitness account is considered authoritative.
Christ as the Logos: The gospel begins by identifying Jesus with The divine Word of God from the Old Testament, who was with God and is God, and through whom all things were made.
Symbolism: The four gospels are often symbolized by the four living creatures from the Book of Revelation; John is classically associated with the eagle, which represents its lofty and powerful writing.
Title - Thesis | Scroll | Short Description | Synthesis 2nd Temple | Antithesis | Synthesis Apostolic | Synthesis Amoraim | Continent Origin | Southern Worldview | Northern Worldview |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
John | Scroll 105 | From I AM to Eucharist | Gospel According to John | Euangélion katà Iōánnēn | Gospel | NA | Asia | New Testament | Gospel Liturgy |
Category Reference Guide
Title/Thesis - The name of the book in American English
Synthesis 2nd Temple - The name of the book in order of its presentation other than the Apostles, ranging from 2nd temple Judaism up to the 1st century
Antithesis - The name of the book in another language
Synthesis Apostolic - The identity of the book in order of its presentation according to Tradition in the church after the 3rd century
Synthesis Amoraim - The name of the book in order of its presentation other than the Apostles, ranging from Tannaim up to the 5th century
Continent Origin - Continent from where the Text Type Source comes from
Southern Worldview - Catalog strategy for storing the scrolls include the interpretation. South means Africa or Egypt (Alexandrian) such as LXX. South of Palestine.
Northern Worldview - Catalog strategy for storing the scrolls include the interpretation. North means Asia or Persia (Babylonian) such as Masoretic. North of Palestine.
Here are additional resources for those who want to continue learning and exploring:
Link to some reference to Saint John's gospel as prime in the Church’s lectionary beginning at the divine Liturgy on Pascha night every year.