The Search for the Theology of the Fourth Evangelist

Abstract

HE search for of Fourth Evangelist opens many doors into that complex labyrinth known as the Johannine problem. Yet in spite of intense explorations of researchers it cannot be said that its corridors have been fully lighted, that end of quest has been reached. This article calls attention to several of these darkened passages that have attracted most interest during last quarter century; evaluates some of findings; and suggests how effort of many scholars may advance our understanding. Whatever misgivings are shared concerning present position of biblical theology as a scholarly discipline, few would doubt that among books of New Testament Gospel of John especially invites theological explanation. This statement does not mean only that Gospel is capable of theological explication, or that it contains material essential to construction of a Christian theology. John's witness to Jesus Christ is itself a theological explanation - or at least beginning of one. The Fourth Evangelist has a in proper sense of term.' A fundamental assumption of modern Johannine scholarship is that a careful examination and articulation of of Fourth Gospel is required, on basis of historical situation and standpoint of Evangelist. The understanding of Fourth Evangelist must be re-exhibited in contemporary