Observation
John says Jesus did many signs, and these written signs have a purpose.
Bible Study Tutor
How to study the Gospel of John
The Gospel of John invites readers to see who Jesus is and believe in Him. Bible Study Tutor helps you slow down and follow John’s purpose passage by passage.
Look for signs and responses
Notice Jesus’ signs, the conversations that follow, and how different people respond with belief, confusion, opposition, or worship.
Trace John’s themes
Watch for light, life, belief, witness, glory, love, truth, the Father, the Son, and the Spirit.
Read toward John’s purpose
John says his Gospel was written so readers may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and have life in His name.
Recommended method
Use OIA for signs and conversations, Lectio Divina for prayerful reflection, and word study for repeated themes such as life, light, and belief.
Worked example: John 20:30-31
John 20:30-31 states the purpose of the Gospel and helps guide the whole study.
Interpretation
The Gospel is written so readers may believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and have life in His name.
Application
A study of John should regularly ask: what does this passage show about Jesus, and how does it call for faith?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, help me see You clearly and believe with living faith.
John study checklist
Use this checklist as you move through John’s Gospel.
- What does this passage reveal about Jesus?
- How do people respond to Him?
- Is there a sign, saying, witness, or contrast?
- How does this passage connect to John’s purpose?
- What response of belief, worship, or obedience is fitting?
John journal example: John 20:31
John often states his purpose clearly, which helps guide a book study.
John 20:31 · KJV
But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.
Observation
John states that the signs and testimony are written for belief.
Meaning
The Gospel aims to reveal Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God.
Application
A study of John should ask how each passage calls for faith in Jesus.
Start studying John
Open John in Bible Study Tutor and use OIA, SOAP, or Lectio Divina to follow the Gospel passage by passage.
Common questions
Why is John a good Gospel to study?
John clearly presents who Jesus is and why believing in Him matters.
Where should beginners start in John?
John 1:1-18, John 3:1-21, John 10:1-18, John 15:1-11, and John 20:30-31 are helpful places to begin.
What should I look for in John?
Look for signs, conversations, I am sayings, witness, belief, life, light, glory, and love.
Can John be studied devotionally?
Yes. John is rich for prayerful reflection, but each passage should still be read in context.
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