The Gospel According to John

I decided to read John's gospel again. There's something about the way he constructs the story that has always fascinated me. Wonderfully profound theology expressed through repeating patterns and mural-like expansive narrative. Of course, as you study each gospel you see each authors style come through: Matthew's fulfilment themes, Mark's sense of immediacy and Luke's attention to detail and continuity. John has carefully placed miracles and big themes driven by the "I am" and "Greater than" sayings, Messianic fulfilment and intimate insight. 

I read the prologue again yesterday, which sets up the whole gospel so wonderfully well. It seems to me to be a wonderful example in itself of this mixture of profound, deep theology and simplicity of the core message. And the high point of the opening passage? Well I guess it has to be: to as many as received him he gave the power to become children of God. 

The darkness may neither understand nor be able to overcome; the world may not recognise him and his own may not receive him, but those who do gain everything. There is no complex series of steps to take or article to comprehend, simply receive and believe and the kingdom is yours. Profound truth explained with great simplicity. 

If only preaching were that easy!