In this volume, Alicia Myers applies a narrative approach to the theology of the Gospel of John, which presents Jesus's coming as the climactic and transformative revelation of God in the world. Placing her study in the context of past and current approaches to John's theology, she explores theological themes with an eye toward the rhetorical categories and aims of the Gospel. These themes include: John's use of Scripture in its presentation of God, Jesus's characterization as the unique one who reveals God's will, the presentation of the world in need of rescue through purification and exorcism, and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit among the community of believers. Myers argues that John reframes other Gospel traditions and provided important fodder for early Christians debates. Contemporary readers inherit John's complicated legacy, including its apocalyptic view of liberation that relies on and undermines Jewish perspectives that do not recognize Jesus as God's Son and Christ.

‘This is a most remarkable book that fills a long felt gap in scholarship. John's theological profile and central themes are densely reconstructed, based on a thorough understanding of the narrative mode and narrative devices aimed at engaging the reader to participate and respond. With a mastery of both ancient and contemporary scholarship, Myers breaks new ground, in her interpretation of ‘the world', the purifying exorcism of its ruler, and the permeability of dualism, new birth and triumphant love. She presents the immense impact of John's theology not in the context of its ancient reception, and as a challenge for the 21st century.'

Jörg Frey - University of Zurich, Switzerland