The Cross in the Johannine Writings

Synopsis: This book offers a rigorous analysis of the theme of "the cross" in the Johannine literature. After reviewing previous scholarship on the issue, Morgan-Wynne examines evidence that prima facie suggests that the evangelist, while maintaining the role of Jesus as revealer of the Father in his incarnate ministry, also saw something decisive for the salvation of human beings happening in the cross. Having established this, the work looks at John's understanding of sin and his concept of the purpose shared by the Father and Jesus, before reflecting on themes associated with the meaning of the cross. Of special importance is John 12, which connects the cross to the judgment of the world, the ejection of Satan, and the drawing of all to Jesus. The author examines what John considers to have been objectively achieved at the cross. A further section examines the meaning of the death of Jesus in the Epistle of 1 John, seen as the work of someone different from the evangelist but belonging to the same Johannine circle. The similarities and differences between Letter and Gospel are explored. Endorsements: "After a comprehensive survey of recent scholarship on the significance of the death of Jesus in the Gospel and First Letter of John the author gives us his own carefully and clearly argued interpretation of it as a saving and not merely a revelatory event. This confirmation of the traditional type of understanding of John's theology over against views that weaken the significance of the cross in it is warmly to be welcomed, especially by students looking for an up-to-date discussion of the problems." -I. Howard Marshall Professor Emeritus of New Testament University of Aberdeen "The Cross in the Johannine Writings provides a thorough, up-to-date evaluation of a discussion that has vexed Johannine scholars for a century. Morgan-Wynne carefully surveys contributors (helpfully including vast continental scholarship in detail), provides an assessment, and then gives careful attention to one of John's most nuanced themes. This is now the most current and important voice that every Johannine scholar will want to hear." -Gary M. Burge Professor of New Testament Wheaton College & Graduate School "A Gospel is the story of Jesus, climaxing in his crucifixion and resurrection. John's telling of that story moves steadily to the same climax, but in motifs and images which are distinctive, even unique among the New Testament Gospels. To appreciate how John's treatment of the cross sheds new light on the gospel being proclaimed adds so much to Christian understanding of the cross. John Morgan-Wynne's valuable study brings this point home with force and effect." -James D. G. Dunn Emeritus Lightfoot Professor of Divinity Durham University Author Biography: John Morgan-Wynne (PhD in Durham) was Tutor in New Testament at Regent's Park College, Oxford, and taught Greek in the University for over twenty years. He served as Principal of Bristol Baptist College for six years and then became minister of Ilkley Baptist Church, West Yorkshire, before retiring. He is the author of Holy Spirit and Christian Experience in Christian Literature ca 90AD to 200AD.