Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility in the Gospel of John: An Alternative Interpretation to Andreas J. Köstenberg's ‘Divine Election’ Reading of John's Soteriology

Abstract

In his A Theology of John's Gospel and Letters, Andreas J. Köstenberg skillfully presents the major theological themes in Johannine literature. The scope and contribution of his work are much appreciated. He builds up his argumentation starting with historical questions and literary analysis then moves to theological themes. Under the theme, ‘The New Messianic Community’, Köstenberg discusses salvation in its relation to divine sovereignty and human responsibility within the framework of divine election and predestination.1 Andreas J. Köstenberger, A Theology of John's Gospel and Letters, (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2009), 458-464. The purpose of this article is to render a ‘second opinion’ to Köstenberg's reading of John in relation to this particular issue. Firstly, I briefly outline Köstenberg's argumentation and conclusion and thereafter I make some remarks offering an alternative reading.