Familiar-Strange: Teaching the Scripture as John Would Teach

Abstract

The Gospel of John teaches through telling the story of Jesus in light of the familiar Hebrew faith stories. It is an interpretive task that presents Jesus to his audience and teaches them adequate faith. John the Teacher skillfully uses narrative skills to create the familiar-strange effect in his storytelling. Each story is followed by a commentary to explain the significance of each sign that John has chosen to be in the Fourth Gospel. John's refined narrative offers a model in teaching the familiar Bible message that engages the audience, and challenges their faith response.