Gospel of John, Part 1

Question 1

How is Jesus, as “the Word” in John 1:1–18, understood: eternal or immortal?

Answer 1

Jesus as “the Word” is understood as eternal. According to Cartlidge and Dungan’s categories, “eternal” signifies timeless existence, which aligns with “the Word” being present “in the beginning” and central to creation.

Question 2

What does John 1:1–3 say about the role of “the Word” in creation?

Answer 2

John 1:1–3 describes “the Word” as both with God and God. It states that all things were made through “the Word,” emphasizing a divine, active role in creation.

Question 3

How does “the Word” in John’s prologue compare with Jewish concepts of “Wisdom”?

Answer 3

Both “the Word” and Jewish “Wisdom” (like in Proverbs 8) are portrayed as pre-existent, divine agents of creation. They are similar in being personifications closely connected to God, but they differ because “the Word” is explicitly equated with Jesus and described as becoming flesh, while “Wisdom” is typically not incarnate.

Question 4

Which characteristics of “savior gods” (from Cartlidge and Dungan) appear in the Gospel of John?

Answer 4

Unusual birth stories are not explicitly detailed in John but are implied through Jesus’ divine origin. Supernatural powers as an adult are displayed through miracles like turning water into wine (John 2), healing the sick, and raising Lazarus (John 11). The ascent to heaven is described in John 20 and Jesus’ dialogue about returning to the Father.

Question 5

How does the pattern of “savior gods” in John compare with the Gospel of Luke?

Answer 5

John focuses on Jesus’ divine origin (“the Word”), miracles, and ultimate return to the Father. Luke provides more narrative detail about Jesus’ birth and childhood (e.g., the nativity story) but also highlights his miracles and ascension.

Question 6

How do answers to the first two questions explain the pattern in John’s Gospel?

Answer 6

John emphasizes Jesus’ eternal divine nature (“the Word”) and alignment with God’s creative power. The connection to “Wisdom” underscores continuity with Jewish tradition while introducing the uniqueness of incarnation and divine sonship.