John (Believers Church Bible Commentary | BCBC)
Digital Verbum Edition
Overview
The gospel of John’s “from above” orientation transforms our human “from below” assumptions and habits. It draws us into union with God and into unity with one another. It communicates who Jesus is, in both intimate and profound dimensions. The book of John shapes Christian identity, invigorates worship, and implants eternal hope. “John’s gospel defies description,” marvels Willard Swartley. “It soars like the eagle, links heaven and earth, and both comforts and convicts the human heart. Its Christology is rich, with a plethora of titles for Jesus-even the divine eternal I am.”
Though commentaries on John abound, this volume follows the unique Believers Church Bible Commentary Series format, providing sections on the text in biblical context and the text in the life of the church. According to Swartley, this format serves well the interests of seminary students and pastors especially.
Top Highlights
“Jesus’ promise of resurrection means death has lost its power; eternal life (cf. John 3:15–17, 36; 5:26) is realized now and in the life to come. New life begins now; dying physically does not end this gift of life that extends eternally through Jesus’ and God’s resurrection power [Eschatology, p. 512] [Eternal Life, p. 513].” (Page 280)
“unbind your graveclothes of sin, fear, and death’s power!” (Page 283)
“Jesus wants no easy out for those inclined to disbelieve. He knows that going to Jerusalem—especially after raising his dear friend—will lead to a fatal clash with the Jerusalem authorities. He counts the cost. Jesus’ behavior is determined by the hour his Father has set for him.” (Page 276)
“worth three hundred denarii (v. 5), which is one year’s wages for a day laborer—calculate the sum in your culture!” (Page 289)
“Jesus weeps (dakryō). It is the difference between loud wailing (v. 33) and silent weeping (v. 35).” (Page 281)
About Willard Swartley
Willard Swartley is professor emeritus at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary in Elkhart, Indiana. He joined the faculty at AMBS in 1978 and continued teaching until 2004. He served as academic dean at AMBS for seven years. He earned his PhD from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1973.
Reviews
2 ratings
Ken McClurkin
11/26/2023
kim jae kwang
1/9/2017
Douglas Miller
8/25/2016
For Willard Swartley's John commentary, here are the blurbs on the back of the book, usually included here but for some reason missing: This commentary embodies the qualities of the fourth Gospel itself: luminous clarity combined with theological depth. Especially noteworthy is Swartley's emphasis on the ethics of the gospel and its message of peaceful community formation --Richard B. Hays, dean, Duke Divinity School Swartley provides access to a rich storehouse of insights gained through his expansive reading of Johannine scholarship and experience in the global church. His strong narrative voice makes this commentary coherent to a broad audience, and a pleasure to read. --Jo-Ann A. Brant, professor of Bible, Goshen College Working on historical, literary, theological, pastoral, and spiritual levels, Willard Swartley has produced a remarkably fine, reader-friendly commentary on John's Gospel for our times. --Rekha M. Chennattu, professor of New Testament, Pontifical Institute of Philosophy and Religion, Pune, India Willard Swartley helps us to meet Jesus anew and to experience more fully his light, life, and love. How? By responding to his radical call to mission, discipleship, and peacemaking: "As the Father has sent me, so I send you" --Todd Friesen, pastor, Lombard (Illinois) Mennonite Church
