Word and Light
Because of its symbolism, John’s gospel has long been read as the spiritual gospel. Early in the third century, Clement of Alexandria wrote, “Last of all, John perceiving that the bodily facts had been made plain in the gospel, being urged by his friends, composed a spiritual gospel.” Of the four gospels, John is the only one that doesn’t mention bread and wine at the Last Supper. And while Jesus’ baptism at the hands of John the Baptist is implied (1:29-34), John’s emphasis is clearly on the coming baptism “with the Holy Spirit” (1:33). As Friends we find much in this gospel that supports the primacy of spiritual reality.
lessons
1. In the Beginning (John 1:1–9)
2. The Word Became Flesh (John 1:10–18)
3. Eternal Life (John 3:1–10, 13–15)
4. God’s Love (John 3:16–21, 25–30)
5. In Spirit and Truth (John 4:1–7, 19–24)
6. The Bread of Life (John 6:35, 48–56, 60–63)
7. The Good Shepherd (John 10:7–16)
8. Serve One Another (John 13:1–15)
9. I Am the Way (John 14:1–7)
10. I Have Called You Friends (John 15:1–16)
11. The Role of the Spirit (John 16:5–16)
12. Ask and Receive (John 16:19–24, 31–33)
13. Completely One (John 17:1–5, 15–23)