John

John, the author of this gospel account, introduces us to Jesus Christ, the Word that "became flesh and dwelt among us." John's concern is the nature and person of Jesus and the meaning of faith in Him. The purpose for writing this gospel account is found in 20:21, which says, "These things have been written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name."

As a member of the Twelve, John was an eyewitness to the miracles of Jesus, an eyewitness to the teachings and preaching of Jesus, and an intimate friend of Jesus, identified within the gospel as "the disciple that Jesus loved." John's unique perspective comes from being a member of the "inner circle" of Peter, James, and John. These three men were present at all the key moments of Jesus's ministry, including the Last Supper, the garden of Gethsemane, and the Mount of Transfiguration.

For three intense years, John watched Jesus live and love; he listened to Him preach and teach; John saw Jesus crucified, and at the foot of the cross, Jesus transferred the care of His mother to the disciple whom He loved. John saw the risen Christ, forever changing his life from a hot-tempered youth to a devoted, fruitful follower, and pillar of the early church.

Are you a devoted follower of Jesus Christ? How deep is your commitment? It is this author's belief that as you journey through John over the next thirty days, you will be compelled to make one of three choices: (1) Jesus was a lunatic; (2) Jesus was a liar; or (3) Jesus is Lord.