Encountering Jesus : Character Studies In The Gospel Of John – Second Editi

Contents:
Preface To The Second Edition
1. Introduction
2. Jesus: The Life-Giving Revealer
3. John: Witness Par Excellence
4. The World: Enveloped In Darkness But Loved By God
5. “The Jews”: Opponents Par Excellence
6. Andrew And Philip: Finders Of People
7. Simon Peter: A Shepherd In The Making
8. Nathanael: The Genuine Israelite
9. The Mother Of Jesus: A Catalyst In His Ministry
10. Nicodemus: In The Twilight Zone
11. The Samaritan Woman: An Unexpected Bride
12. The Royal Official: His Word Is Enough For Me
13. The Invalid At The Pool: A Lame Response
14. The Crowd: A Faceless, Divided Mass
15. The Twelve: Slow But Sticky
16. Judas Iscariot: The Black Sheep Of The Family
17. The Man Born Blind: Once I Was Blind But Now I See
18. Martha: The Ideal Johannine Confessor
19. Mary Of Bethany: At Jesus’ Feet
20. Lazarus: The Dead Shall Hear His Voice
21. Thomas: Let Me See And Touch
22. The Beloved Disciple: The Unique Eyewitness
23. Pilate: Securing A Hollow Victory
24. Mary Magdalene: Recognizing The Shepherd’s Voice
25. Joseph Of Arimathea: Faith And Fear
26. Conclusion

Additional Info
Applying a comprehensive theory of character to the Gospel of John, Cornelis Bennema provides a fresh analysis of both the characters and their responses to Jesus. While the majority of scholars view most Johannine characters as “flat,” Bennema demonstrates that many are complex, developing, and “round.” John’s broad array of characters and their responses to Jesus correspond to people and their choices in real life in any culture and time. This book highlights how John’s Gospel seeks to challenge its readers, past and present, about where they stand in relation to Jesus.