Description

What makes the Gospel of John stand out from the rest? Dive into this engaging introduction to John’s unique perspective on Jesus, his mission, and his miracles. Whether you're rediscovering your faith, deconstructing it, or just looking for answers, this episode will guide you toward seeing Jesus in a new way. Don’t miss this foundational conversation on faith, life, and the signs pointing us to the Messiah.

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Episode Summary:
Welcome to the first episode of Rebuilding Faith! This series explores the Gospel of John, taking a thoughtful, step-by-step journey through its rich insights. Whether navigating doubt, deconstructing faith, or simply curious, this podcast is designed for you.

This week’s episode introduces John’s Gospel by focusing on its core purpose, as stated in John 20:30-31. The Apostle John wrote his gospel so that readers would believe in Jesus as the Messiah and find life in His name. Here are the key points discussed:

Key Highlights:

1. The Purpose of John’s Gospel

   • John clearly states in John 20:30-31 that his purpose is to lead readers to faith in Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God. This “thesis statement” will guide the study of the entire book.

2. Historical Context

   • The Apostle John wrote during a time when false teachings about Jesus were spreading, particularly from figures like Cerinthus. Understanding this context enriches our appreciation of John’s emphasis on Jesus' divine and human nature.

3. John’s Unique Focus

   • Unlike the synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), John takes a distinct approach, sharing only about 10% of the same material. He organizes his gospel around seven miracles or "signs," carefully chosen to reveal Jesus' identity and mission.

4. Personal Reflection and Faith

   • The podcast challenges listeners to reflect personally on key questions:
     • Can Jesus meet you in your pain, disappointments, and hopes?
     • How can you see Jesus more clearly in your life today?

5. Insights from Modern Voices

   • Quotes from thinkers like Brian Zahnd and Greg Boyd remind us of the beauty and mystery of Jesus. Boyd says, “God is infinitely more beautiful than you could ever conceive, but spend a lot of your energy trying.”

6. Invitation to Engage

   • This series isn’t just for passive listening. Listeners are encouraged to read the Gospel of John for themselves, reflect deeply, and participate in group discussions or personal journaling to deepen their understanding.

Final Thoughts:
Join us on this journey to see Jesus more clearly and discover the life He offers. Whether you’re exploring faith for the first time or revisiting it with fresh eyes, this series promises to be transformative.

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