I write about Stuff

John Bible Study: Knowing What Is True in an Untrue World by Kevin G. Harney; Gary M. Burge – a book review

A thoughtful, accessible journey through John’s Gospel

This study offers a rich and inviting exploration of the Gospel of John, blending biblical scholarship with practical discipleship. Kevin Harney and Gary Burge guide readers through the major movements of John’s Gospel, helping them see not only what the text meant in the first century but what it means for life today. The tone is warm, clear, and ecumenical—ideal for groups or individuals who want to go deeper without getting lost in academic detail.

John’s Gospel is unique among the four. It is both narrative and pastoral, both proclamation and encouragement. Harney and Burge honour that dual nature, showing how John wrote to reveal Jesus as the Son of God while also strengthening early believers who were navigating confusion, opposition, and competing truth claims. In a world where “truth” is often contested, this study feels timely and grounding.

What the study covers

The study follows the NIV Application Bible Study format, which moves through three layers:

• Original meaning — What John was addressing in his time
• Past to present — How the first audience would have heard it
• Application — How the passage speaks into our lives today

The lessons trace the major encounters and themes of John’s Gospel:

• The Word made flesh (John 1)
• Nicodemus and new birth (John 3)
• The Samaritan woman and living water (John 4)
• Bread of life and belief (John 6)
• Living water at the feast (John 7)
• Light of the world and spiritual sight (John 8–9)
• Lazarus and resurrection hope (John 11)
• Jesus washing feet (John 13)
• Promise of the Spirit (John 14)
• The vine and fruitfulness (John 15–16)
• The passion narrative (John 18–19)
• The risen Christ (John 20)

Each session includes questions, reflections, and practical prompts that help readers move from understanding to transformation.

Strengths of the study

1. Clear, grounded teaching

Gary Burge’s expertise in Johannine studies shines through, but always in a way that feels accessible. The study explains historical context, Jewish background, and theological themes without overwhelming readers.

2. Deeply pastoral tone

Kevin Harney brings a shepherd’s heart to the material. The questions invite honesty, reflection, and spiritual growth rather than mere information gathering.

3. A strong focus on truth in a confusing world

John’s Gospel was written to help believers discern what is true about Jesus. This study draws that theme forward, helping modern readers navigate a world full of competing voices and half‑truths.

4. Ecumenical and group‑friendly

The study avoids denominational divides and focuses on shared Christian essentials—Jesus’ identity, the Spirit’s presence, discipleship, and the call to follow Christ.

5. Practical spiritual formation

Each lesson moves naturally from Scripture to life:

• What does this reveal about Jesus?
• What does this reveal about us?
• How does this shape the way we live, love, and discern truth?

Who this study is for

• Small groups wanting a structured, Scripture‑centred study
• Individuals seeking a deeper understanding of John’s Gospel
• Ecumenical groups with varied backgrounds
• New believers wanting clarity about Jesus’ identity
• Mature believers wanting to revisit John with fresh eyes

It is especially helpful for those wrestling with questions of truth, identity, and what it means to follow Jesus in a noisy world.

A pastoral takeaway

John wrote so that “you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah… and that by believing you may have life in his name.” This study honours that purpose. It helps readers encounter Jesus not only as a historical figure but as the living Lord who still speaks, still reveals truth, and still offers life.

A question to carry with you

As you reflect on John’s Gospel, which portrait of Jesus—light, shepherd, vine, bread, living water—speaks most deeply into your own season of faith right now?