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Click chart to enlarge
Charts from Jensen's Survey of the NT - used by permission
See another Chart from Swindoll
Click to enlarge
THE LIFE OF JESUS AS COVERED
BY GOSPEL OF JOHN (shaded area)
Click chart to enlarge
Explanation - The following list includes not only commentaries but other Christian works by well known evangelical writers. Most of the resources below are newer works (written after 1970) which previously were available only for purchase in book form or in a Bible computer program. The resources are made freely available by archive.org but have several caveats - (1) they do not allow copy and paste, (2) they can only be checked out for one hour (but can be checked out immediately when your hour expires giving you time to read or take notes on a lengthy section) and (3) they require creating an account which allows you to check out the books free of charge. To set up an account click archive.org and then click the picture of the person in right upper corner and enter email and a password. That's all you have to do. Then you can read these more modern resources free of charge! I have read or used many of these resources but not all of them so ultimately you will need to be a Berean (Acts 17:11+) as you use them. I have also selected works that are conservative and Biblically sound. If you find one that you think does not meet those criteria please send an email at https://www.preceptaustin.org/
God, are you there? (Do You Care? Do You Know About Me?) by Arthur, Kay (1994) 246 pages. 61 ratings
This is not a commentary but a guide to study of the Gospel of John, and one of the best guides available. If you want to meet Jesus or introduce him to someone who is willing to study the Gospel of John with you, this book is for you. You will be guided through the Gospel using inductive Bible study methods by one of the premier inductive teachers of our generation. This would also be an excellent book for small group Bible study of John. You will not be disappointed and hopefully you can use it to see another soul brought into the Kingdom by the Spirit and the Word in John's Gospel (Jn 20:31)!
John - Life Application Commentary - Bruce Barton, et al. (1993) 468 pages 33 ratings Comments are not long but conservative often with excellent application points.
John: Life Application Bible Studies - 125 pages - study notes - not the same as the resource above.
Life Application Study Bible : New Living Translation. Has some very helpful notes.
The Gospel according to John Pillar Commentary Series - Carson, D. A. (Donald Arthur), 1946-
The Interpretation of St. John's Gospel - R C H Lenski
Jehovah's Witnesses, Jesus Christ, and the Gospel of John by Bowman, Robert M
James Rosscup - He puts his focus on John 1:1, answering Jehovah’s Witnesses who have changed their line of argument from a few years ago. Bowman also deals with 8:58 and 20:28. For years Bowman has shown skill in refuting cultic error as associate editor of Christian Research Journal and in other capacities.
The Gospel of John - Volume 1 - John 1:1-4:54 - James M Boice
The Gospel of John - Volume 3 - John 9:1-12:50 - James M Boice
The Gospel of John: by Bruce, F. F. (1994) 444 pages Grace Theological Journal - "A gold mine for the reader who desires to pursue the argument of the Gospel from the standpoint of the best of present-day scholarship." Rosscup ranks this the #4 (out of 8) best exegetical commentary.
Rosscup - Bruce gives a fresh translation of the Greek, much good commentary, a copious use of current literature, and application. Clarity prevails as he offers help for pastors, seminarians and lay people. At times, however, his vocabulary will mystify those not trained in languages, e. g. “sotto voce,” p. 174; “ingressive sense of the aorist,” p. 246, etc. Overall it is a very fine commentary by one of the leading evangelicals of recent decades.
John : the gospel of light and life by Hillis, Don W 15 ratings - highly rated by users.
Note this is not a commentary but a guided study with questions on many verses followed by a "test" (True/False) - Might be useful if you have never studied John. Also might be helpful to someone teaching (even preaching) John as it gives suggested questions.
John - The NIV Application Commentary by Burge, Gary M., 1952- (2000) 638 pages 131 ratings or another source 16 ratings
Rosscup - A Wheaton College professor seeks to interpret John in its Jewish flavor, i.e. with sensitivity to the OT rooting and Palestinian Judaism of Jesus’ day. He uses such materials to see the Messianic aspects. Burge offers different views on some of the problems, such as “water and Spirit” in 3:6, and Peter’s responses in 21:15–17. He gives background custom as for the events of the festival when Jesus invited drinking from Him (7:37–39), and footwashing in chap. 13. This does not mean that in all verses comments are adequate (cf. 15:2, 6, for example) to nail details down distinctly, or look at views. Since this series often just sums up passages, remarks on some verses can be difficult and slow to be located, or at times not be there due to the generalities. Some key verses are handled too quickly, or only partially (cf. 10:28, 29). The comments are sufficient at times, but not consistently enough to put the work among the more dependable.
John: the Gospel of Life by Burge, Gary M., (2008) 148 pages - This is a study guide not a commentary.
Interpreting the fourth Gospel by Burge, Gary (1996) 196 pages - A Guide to New Testament Exegesis. Not a commentary, but an interesting resource. For example on page 125 there is lengthy discussion on Word Studies in John including a section entitled "Fundamental Rules of Word Study." and another entitled "Common Johannine Word Study Errors."
Interpreting the Gospel of John : a practical guide by Burge, Gary M., (2013) 244 pages - Apparently the revised edition of the resource directly above.
Evangelical Commentary on the Bible - editor Walter Elwell (1989) 1239 pages. User reviews. Burge, Gary. “John,” in Evangelical Commentary
James Rosscup - Although brief, Burge shows awareness of issues and often uses his space well to provide help.
The theology of John by Cook, W. Robert
Cyril Barber - A detailed examination of Johannine literature covering all the major areas of thought. A worthy contribution to this area of biblical theology. Recommended.
Anatomy of the Fourth Gospel : a study in literary design by Culpepper, R. Alan
Cyril Barber - Competent interdisciplinary studies in English are rare. This one explores John and makes ample use of modern redactional works to highlight the poetics, narrative structure, and other aspects of the gospel. The result is a stimulating, scholarly work
The Beloved Disciple ... his name, his story, his thought : two studies from the Gospel of John by Eller, Vernard
Cyril Barber - An informative and unorthodox approach to the authorship and theology of the fourth gospel. With tongue-in-cheek Eller uses the techniques of Sherlock Holmes to unravel the mystery of authorship. His conclusion will surprise some and irritate others. A lively discussion.
The Gospel of John; an exposition by Erdman, Charles R.
Rosscup - Concise treatments are given to each of the N. T. books. The main value of the set lies in its clear synthesis which helps the student grasp the flow of thought as he moves through a book. Erdman possessed a lucid writing style. He was amillennial.
A guide to John's Gospel by Guthrie, Donald
Cyril Barber - In order to promote more expositional study of the biblical text--especially among lay persons--Guthrie has prepared this collection of outlines on the Gospel of John. While his aim is to lay bare what the text actually says, his guiding purpose is to assist Christians understand how Scripture may be applied to their lives. To achieve this goal, Guthrie has divided John's gospel into sections. His knowledge of the NT is incisive, and his skill as a Bible teacher places all readers in his debt. This is an extremely helpful little volume and is as concise as it is relevant. Recommended.
John, the gospel of faith by Harrison, Everett Falconer, 1902- from Everyman's Bible Commentary series. Conservative, but not much depth.
Exposition of the Gospel according to John by Hendriksen, William, 1900-1982 (1953) 526 pages 19 ratings
Rosscup - Trained in the Christian Reformed tradition, Hendriksen is thoroughly conservative and believes in plenary verbal inspiration. He served for ten years as Professor of New Testament Literature in Calvin Seminary. His introductions are quite extended and carefully written. In his commentary, which is very usable, he first presents a brief synthetic outline of a section, follows up with a detailed discussion verse-by-verse, then gives a survey of the argument in that section. His footnote discussions show a wide breadth of reading. He is usually quite helpful on problems, Greek word meanings, and matters of history, culture or geography. There are many stimulating sermon hints and devotional thoughts. He is good in presenting several different views to a question and documenting them thoroughly. He is amillennial in matters pertaining to the kingdom (cf. his comment on 10:16 as well as his book More Than Conquerors, pp. 222ff.). Though the author is very helpful in the Greek, the manner of discussion can be extremely valuable to the layman.
Behold the Man (Expository Studies in the Gospel of John 11-21) by R. Kent Hughes (1984) 184 pages Rosscup ranks Hughes work on John's Gospel #3 (out of 6) in the devotional category.
John: That You May Believe (536 pages)
Cyril Barber on Hughes' "John: That you May Believe" - An expositional commentary of rare excellence. Covers the theme of John’s gospel in the best evangelical tradition. Designed for lay people.
Light in the darkness : studies in the Gospel of John by Kent, Homer Austin (1974) 244 pages 2 ratings Rosscup ranks this is the #2 most useful expositional commentary on John.
Rosscup - Kent’s paragraph-by-paragraph survey of John’s Gospel deals with some of the main problem areas in exposition. It is geared to be a guide for personal or group study. Kent utilizes photographs, maps, and diagrams. It is a good expositional survey by an evangelical (former President, Grace Theological Seminary, Winona Lake, IN).
Encountering John : the Gospel in historical, literary, and theological perspective by Köstenberger, Andreas J.,
Cyril Barber (on Kostenberger's "Exegetical Commentary on the NT") This commentary follows several other works on John’s Gospel written by Kostenberger. The writer treats this canonical book as historically reliable, the product of careful composition, that sets forth Christ as the Son of God in a way that would lead readers to faith in Him. A scholarly production.
The Gospel of John by Michaels, J. Ramsey - New International Commentary New Testament - Mathison writes "preachers may want to consult the commentaries by" and then mentions this author.
The Gospel According to John : An Introduction and Commentary by Kruse, Colin G (2008) 404 pages = Note this is not his more detailed work in the Pillar Commentary Series but his shorter work in the Tyndale NT Commentary Series. See reviews although I think these are primarily on the newer edition (2017). They should still give you a good idea of the value of his original edition.
John by Fredrikson, Roger (The Communicator's Commentary) - now published as the Preacher's Commentary. 4.9/5 stars. These are generally helpful for preaching as they often have illustrations, etc. Read some of the glowing reviews = 10 ratings or reviews.
Or here = The Communicator's Commentary. John - identical to above
The Gospel according to John : the English text with introduction, exposition and notes - New International Commentary New Testament by Morris, Leon
Cyril Barber - A work of superlative scholarship that not only replaces the majestic work by Westcott but surpasses Barrett as well.
Rosscup ranks this is the #5 most useful exegetical commentary on John.
Reflections on the Gospel of John by Morris, Leon - 776 pages (2000)
Studies in the fourth Gospel by Morris, Leon - 382 pages (1969) This is not his commentary in the NICNT listed above, but his writing are always generally excellent. One user writes "This volume concerns controversies over authorship, date, and theological questions that Leon Morris deliberately didn't address in his full commentary."
Secrets of the Spirit by Stedman, Ray C (1977) 164 pages = Also online at this link. - PDF's of the 12 sermons in this series given in 1973 at Peninsula Bible Church. Entire series, one html file or one Adobe Acrobat .pdf file
Cyril Barber - As an exposition of Christ's "last will and testament," these studies of John 14-16 ably treat the events that took place on the eve of the crucifixion
Preaching the Gospel of John : proclaiming the living Word by Williamson, Lamar. 347 pages. See Ratings - Interesting format - not a classic commentary. A quick review suggests it might have some helpful hints on preaching the texts.
Christ the liberator by Stott, John R. W
James Rosscup - This book has other messages at Urbana, 1970, but Stott’s expositions on John 13–17 fill the first 89 pages. In the opinion of the reviewer, they are some of the best ever published with respect to coming right to grips with the message for Christians in a concise focus. Stott is well-organized in elucidating the passage, and he brings key issues out clearly in their application to spiritual living and representing Christ in the world.
Insights on John by Swindoll, Charles R (2010) 376 pages 214 ratings
Logos.com - Insights on John, volume two in the landmark Swindoll's New Testament Insights series, provides a wealth of colorful, detailed, and easy-to-understand insights into the gospel of John. Drawing on his vast experience as a communicator of God's Word, Chuck Swindoll presents his legacy to all who read and love the Bible.
Following Christ ... the man of God : a study of John 6-14 by Swindoll, Charles (2000) 132 pages
The Gospel of John: Believe and Live: Believe and Live (21st Century Biblical Commentary Series) by Towns, Elmer L (2002) 264 pages 47 ratings
Cyril Barber - This book is the fruit of the author's "lifelong love affair with the gospel of John." Through word studies from the Greek text, Towns presents the immense riches to be found in John's unique message. He explains that "John's ultimate purpose is that his readers will believe the record of the life and death of the Son of God and receive eternal life."
The Gospel according to St. John : an introduction and commentary by Tasker, R. V. G. 1 ratings
The Complete Biblical library / Vol. 5 : Part 1, New Testament : Study Bible, John - interesting resource. Includes interlinear and commentary notes.
Believe in Miracles but Trust in Jesus by Rogers, Adrian - This is not a commentary on John but does have chapters dealing with some of Jesus' miracles in John - The Possibility of Miracles, The Problem with Miracles. Water to Wine (John 2), Nobleman's Son Healed (John 4), Healing the Impotent Man (John 5), Feeding the 5000 (John 6), Calming the Storm (John 6), Opening Blind Eyes (John 9), Raising Lazarus (John 11), The Maximum Miracle (John 20:30-31). I will guarantee you that if you are preaching or teaching on any of the preceding chapters in John, you will glean many "pearls" from Dr Rogers' discussion. I give it "6 out of 5 stars!" 42 ratings
Commentary on John by Whitelaw, Thomas
Cyril Barber - Formerly published as the Gospel of St. John. A verse-by-verse exposition with homiletic hints. Seminal. Evangelical.
Be alive (John 1-12): Get to Know the Living Savior by Wiersbe, Warren (1986) 160 pages. 277 ratings
Logos.com - As he studied and wrote this book, Dr. Warren Wiersbe "felt like a man standing on holy ground." For he realized all the more the truth of the statement of the great Greek scholar Dr. A. T. Robertson: The Gospel of John is "the profoundest book in the world." In Be Alive, Dr. Wiersbe presents the basic teachings of the first twelve chapters of John's Gospel and urges readers to approach its truths with the hearts and minds of worshipers. Come to better know the living Savior and... BE ALIVE!
Be Transformed (John 13-21): Christ's Triumph Means Your Transformation by Wiersbe, Warren (1986) 160 pages. 377 ratings
Logos.com - Yes, they became transformed men, those original disciples. In the opening chapters of John's Gospel, you see a group of men who were struggling with their faith and occasionally stumbling. But after Christ's death and resurrection, things changed--because they became transformed by His power and His Word. In completing his study of John's Gospel (see Be Alive for John 1-12). Dr. Warren Wiersbe explains how you can become a transformed person. He answers such important questions as:
- How does the Holy Spirit work in my life?
- What are the secrets of answered prayer?
- Why is Christian fellowship so important?
- How can I overcome the pressures of the world?
"But as many as received Him, to them gave the power to become..." (John 1:12). This is your invitation to personal transformation and triumph!
Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the New Testament by Wiersbe, Warren W
Cyril Barber - This is a book of exceptional merit. Pastors, missionaries, and Christian workers will profit from its use. Wiersbe introduces each book of the NT, provides an outline, and then furnishes his readers with a chapter-by-chapter discussion of the contents. The homiletic style is a “plus.” Recommended.
With the Word - Devotional Commentary - Warren Wiersbe - Comments on individual chapters.
The Bible Exposition Commentary by Wiersbe, Warren W - All NT books in one source. Excellent. Or here
Rosscup - One of America’s most appreciated staunchly evangelical Bible conference teachers gives diligent, refreshing expositions. These are all of his 23 separate, earlier books in the “Be” series on the New Testament. He strikes a particular appeal with lay people as he crystallizes sections, deals with some of the verses, handles certain problems and backgrounds and applies principles. He is premillennial.
Windows on the parables by Wiersbe, Warren
Interpreting the parables by Blomberg, Craig
The Gospel of John - William Barclay - Be aware of some questions about his orthodoxy! (critique) While William Barclay often has very insightful Greek word studies, the Berean-like reader (Acts 17:11) needs to be aware that he does hold some very unorthodox beliefs. See on site comments and also see article on The Enigmatic William Barclay"
John by Beasley-Murray, George Raymond, - Word Biblical Commentary - gets about 4/5 stars.
One readers review - Given the comprehensiveness of most volumes in the Word series, one would expect more from this volume. It isn't bad by any stretch, but far less detailed and thorough than I had wanted. I don't see much in this which isn't available from other commentaries on John.
The Gospel of John by Witherington, Ben, III, 13 ratings - Read some of the ratings to get an idea of the nature of this book.
Chronological and Background Charts of the NEW TESTAMENT - Pdf - D Wayne House - outstanding compilation of charts - check this one out!. This book can also be borrowed = Chronological and background charts of the New Testament
STUDY BIBLES:
Note: The first 4 resources have no time restriction and allow copy and paste function:
(1) KJV Bible Commentary - Hindson, Edward E; Kroll, Woodrow Michael. Over 3000 pages of the entire OT/NT. Well done conservative commentary that interprets Scripture from a literal perspective. Pre-millennial. User reviews - it generally gets 4/5 stars from users. - 372 ratings
Very well done conservative commentary that interprets Scripture from a literal perspective user reviews
The King James Version Bible Commentary is a complete verse-by-verse commentary. It is comprehensive in scope, reliable in scholarship, and easy to use. Its authors are leading evangelical theologians who provide practical truths and biblical principles. Any Bible student will gain new insights through this one-volume commentary based on the timeless King James Version of the Bible.
(2) The King James Study Bible Second Edition 2240 pages (2013) (Thomas Nelson) General Editor - Edward Hindson with multiple contributing editors. . 3,194 ratings. Pre-millennial. See introduction on How to Use this Study Bible.
(3) NKJV Study Bible: New King James Version Study Bible (formerly "The Nelson Study Bible - NKJV") by Earl D Radmacher; Ronald Barclay Allen; Wayne H House. 2345 pages. (1997, 2007). Very helpful notes. Conservative. Pre-millennial. 917 ratings
(4) The Wycliffe Bible Commentary - only the New Testament (for OT see below to borrow) - 1126 pages. (1971) Everett F Harrison - Editor of New Testament. Uses the KJV. Strictly speaking not a study Bible, but short notes are similar. KJV text in left column, commentary notes in right column. The comments are generally verse by verse, short, conservative and to the point. Pre-millennial.
Quote from Henry Alford (1810-1871 - not a dispensationalist!) on Revelation 20 - "It will have been long ago anticipated by the readers of this Commentary, that I cannot consent to distort words from their plain sense and chronological place in the prophecy, on account of any considerations of difficulty, or any risk of abuses which the doctrine of the millennium may bring with it. Those who lived next to the Apostles, and the whole Church for 300 years, understood them in the plain literal sense: and it is a strange sight in these days to see expositors who are among the first in reverence of antiquity, complacently casting aside the most cogent instance of consensus which primitive antiquity presents. As regards the text itself, no legitimate treatment of it will extort what is known as the spiritual interpretation now in fashion.”
Dictionary of Biblical Imagery - free for use online with no restrictions (i.e., you do not need to borrow this book). Editors Leland Ryken, J C Wilhoit, Tremper Longman III - This is a potential treasure chest to aid your preaching and teaching as it analyzes the meaning of a host of Biblical figures of speech. Clue - use the "One-page view" which then allows you to copy and paste text. One downside is there is no index, so you need to search 3291 pages for entries which are alphabetical.
Zondervan NIV Study Bible - (2011) 2570 pages - Use this one if available as it has more notes than edition below. One hour limit
NIV Study Bible by Barker, Kenneth L; Burdick, Donald W (1995) 2250 pages. This is the first edition. This resource has been fully revised in 2020. One hour limit
Believer's Bible Commentary - OT and NT - MacDonald, William (1995) 2480 pages. Conservative. Literal. Often has very insightful comments. John MacArthur, says "Concise yet comprehensive - the most complete single-volume commentary I have seen." Warren Wiersbe adds "For the student who is serious about seeing Christ in the Word." One hour limit.
Rosscup - This work, originally issued in 1983, is conservative and premillennial, written to help teachers, preachers and people in every walk of life with different views, explanation and application. The 2-column format runs verse by verse for the most part, usually in a helpfully knowledgeable manner, and there are several special sections such as “Prayer” in Acts and “Legalism” in Galatians. The premillennial view is evident on Acts 1:6, 3:20, Romans 11:26, Galatians 6:16, Revelation 20, etc.
HCSB Study Bible : Holman Christian Standard Bible - General Editor Jeremy Royal Howard (2010) 2360 pages. Conservative. Good notes. Include Holmans excellent maps. One hour limit
Life Application Study Bible: Old Testament and New Testament: New Living Translation. Has some very helpful notes especially with application of texts. 4,445 ratings One hour limit
The MacArthur Study Bible - John MacArthur. Brief but well done notes for conservative, literal perspective. 1,275 ratings
ESV Study Bible - Excellent resource but not always literal in eschatology and the nation of Israel 6,004 ratings
The David Jeremiah Study Bible - (2013) 2208 pages. 2,272 ratings Logos.com - "Drawing on more than 40 years of study, Dr. David Jeremiah has compiled a legacy resource that will make an eternal impact on generations to come. 8,000 study notes. Hundreds of enriching word studies"50+ Essentials of the Christian Faith" articles."
Wycliffe Bible Commentary - Charles Pfeiffer - 1560 pages (1962). 214 ratings Less detailed than the KJV Bible Commentary. Conservative. Notes are generally verse by verse but brief.
Rosscup - Conservative and premillennial scholars here have been experts in their fields. The work contains brief introductions and attempts to give a verse-by-verse exposition, though it does skip over some verses. The treatments vary with the authors, but as a whole it is a fine one-volume commentary for pastors and students to use or give to a layman. Outstanding sections include, for example: Whitcomb on Ezra-Nehemiah-Esther; Culver on Daniel; Ladd on Acts; Harrison on Galatians; Johnson on I Corinthians; and Ryrie on the Johannine Epistles.
The Defender's Study Bible : King James Version by Morris, Henry M. Excellent notes by well known creationist. 45 ratings
New Bible Commentary - (1994) See user reviews
Compact Bible commentary by Radmacher, Earl D; Allen, Ronald Barclay; House, H Wayne, et al - 954 pages. 424 ratings Multiple contributors to the comments which are often verse by verse. The comments are brief but meaty and can really help your study through a given book. A sleeper in my opinion.
The Experiencing God Study Bible: the Bible for knowing and doing the will of God - Blackaby, Henry (1996) 1968 pages - CHECK THIS ONE! Each chapter begins with several questions under the title "PREPARE TO MEET GOD." Then you will interesting symbols before many of the passages. The chapter ends with a "DID YOU NOTICE?" question. This might make a "dry chapter" jump off the page! Read some of the 48 ratings
NLT Study Bible (Illustration Version)
Disciple's Study Bible: New international version 54 ratings Not that helpful for verse by verse study. Focuses on application of Christian doctrines. 10,000 annotations; doctrinal summaries, "Life Helps" section relate doctrine to everyday discipleship.
The Living Insights Study Bible : New International Version - Charles Swindoll. Notes are good but somewhat sparse and not verse by verse.
The Apologetics Study Bible Understand Why You Believe by Norman Geisler
NIV Archaeological Study Bible (2005) 2360 pages 950 ratings (See also Archaeology and the Bible - OT and NT)
"Readers who desire a more intimate knowledge of the historical context of the Bible will appreciate the NIV Archaeological Study Bible. Full of informative articles and full-color photographs of places and objects from biblical times, this Bible examines the archaeological record surrounding God’s Word and brings the biblical world to life. Readers’ personal studies will be enriched as they become more informed about the empires, places, and peoples of the ancient world. Features include: • Four-color interior throughout • Bottom-of-page study notes exploring passages that speak on archaeological and cultural facts • Articles (520) covering five main categories: Archaeological Sites, Cultural and Historical Notes, Ancient Peoples and Lands, the Reliability of the Bible, and Ancient Texts and Artifacts • Approximately 500 4-color photographs interspersed throughout • Detailed book introductions that provide basic, at-a-glance information • Detailed charts on pertinent topics • In-text color maps that assist the reader in placing the action "
NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible. Bringing to Life the Ancient World of Scripture Keener, Craig and Walton, John. Editors (2017)
The Holman Illustrated Study Bible 120 ratings Includes the excellent Holman maps but otherwise of little help in serious study.
Zondervan King James Version Commentary - New Testament
NIV Celebrate Recovery Study Bible
Daily Study Bible for Women : New Living Translation
The Woman's Study Bible : the New King James Version
The Study Bible for Women : Holman Christian Standard Bible
Daily Study Bible for Men : New Living Translation
NIV Topical Study Bible : New International Version
Ryrie Study Bible - Charles Ryrie (1978) 2142 pages. Conservative. 216 ratings
Ryrie Study Bible Expanded Edition (1994) 2232 pages
The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible : New American standard study by Strong, James, 1822-1894; Zodhiates, Spiros
The New Inductive Study Bible : updated New American Standard Bible - Introductions of each book give suggestions how to perform an inductive study on that specific book. Not strictly speaking a "study Bible" with notes but a Bible to help you study inductively. Has wide margins for making notes. This is one that works best in "paper," not digitally.
Evangelical Commentary on the Bible - Judges by Andrew Boling (20 pages); editor Walter Elwell (1989) 1239 pages. User reviews. (See also Boling's 380 page commentary on Judges the Anchor Bible Series)
Halley's Bible Handbook Henry H. Halley - (2000) 2720 pages (much larger than original edition in 1965 and no time limit on use). (Halley's Bible handbook : an abbreviated Bible commentary - one hour limit 1965 872 pages)
Rosscup - A much-used older evangelical handbook bringing together a brief commentary on Bible books, some key archaeological findings, historical background, maps, quotes, etc. It is helpful to a lay Bible teacher, Sunday School leader, or pastor looking for quick, pertinent information on a Bible book. This is the 72nd printing somewhat revised. Halley packed in much information. Unger’s is better overall, but that is not to say that Halley’s will not provide much help on basic information.
The Shaw Pocket Bible Handbook - Editor - Walter Elwell (1984) 408 pages.
"This hardback is small in size but packed full of content: Brief summaries of every book of the bible, cultural, archaeological and historical info, word definitions, pictures, maps and charts." Worth checking!
- John 1:1-13 The Word
- John 1:14-34 Behold! The Lamb
- John 1:35-51 Five who Followed in Faith
- The Jews in the Gospel of John - 1975 - discusses each occurrence of "Jews" in the Gospel
A. B. BRUCE
- John 1:1-5 Having A Right Christmas
- John 1:1-18 Jesus: The Word Of God
- John 1:35-42 The Invitation To Consider
- John 1:35-42 The Traits Of Successful Soul Winners
- John 1:1-13
- John 1:14-28
- John 1:29-34
- John 1:35-51
- John 1:1-14
- John 1:15-28
- John 1:29-34
- John 1:34-51
- 1: The Nature and Purpose of John’s Gospel (John 20:30-31)
- 2: Jesus: Revealer of God (John 1:1-5)
- 3: God’s Witness, Your Verdict (John 1:6-13)
- 4: The Word Became Flesh (John 1:14)
- 5: Why You Should Believe in Jesus (John 1:15-18)
- 6: Who Are You? (John 1:19-28)
- 7: Who is Jesus? (John 1:29-34)
- 8: Friends Bring Friends to Jesus (John 1:35-51)
- 9: Meeting Jesus (John 1:35-51)
- John 1:1 WE BELIEVE IN THE BIBLE
- John 1 AND HE BROUGHT HIM TO JESUS
- John 1:1-2 THE INCARNATION
- John 1:3 THE CHRIST OF CREATION
- John 1:1-3 CHRIST, THE WORD OF GOD
- John 1:1-3 THE PRE-EXISTENT CHRIST
- John 1:1-4 CHRIST THE WORD OF GOD
- John 1:1-5 JESUS: THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD
- John 1:3 THE CHRIST OF CREATION
- John 1:4 JESUS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD
- John 1:6 JOHN THE FORERUNNER
- John 1:6 THE GOD-SENT MAN
- John 1:1-3 CHRIST, THE WORD OF GOD
- John 1:1-14 THE MIRACLE OF THE INCARNATION
- John 1:1-14 THE DEITY OF CHRIST
- John 1:1-18 THE DOCTRINE OF THE INCARNATION
- John 1:2-14 OUR LORD’S ENTRANCE INTO HUMAN FLESH
- John 1:1-14 THE GLORY OF THE LORD
- John 1:1-18 THE PRE-EXISTENT CHRIST
- John 1:11 SOMEBODY ELSE OWNS MY LIFE
- John 1:11 THE WORLD’S GREATEST BLUNDER
- John 1:11-12 A CONTEMPLATION OF CHRIST’S ATONEMENT
- John 1:13 CHRIST THE WORD OF GOD
- John 1:14 HOW COULD GOD BECOME A MAN?
- John 1:14 THE GLORY OF THE LORD.
- John 1:14 THE WORD MADE FLESH
- John 1:14 THE DIVINE INVASION
- John 1:14 THE ETERNAL CHRIST
- John 1:14 THE INCARNATION OF CHRIST
- John 1:15-17 FEEDING THE LAMBS
- John 1:18 THE WORD MADE FLESH
- John 1:18 JOHN REVEALS THE PURPOSES OF THE INCARNATION
- John 1:19 COVENANT AND DISPENSATIONAL THEOLOGY
- John 1:19-34 JOHN THE BAPTIST
- John 1:19-34 THE LAMB OF GOD
- John 1:29 THE WORLD’S SIN BEARER
- John 1:29-37 BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD
- John 1:35-42 GOD’S USHERS
- John 1:35-42 ANDREW
- John 1:35-51 AND HE BROUGHT HIM TO JESUS: JESUS’ FIRST SOULWINNER
- John 1:36 COME AND SEE
- Intro to John
- John 1:1-18 Commentary
- John 1:19-37 The Witness of John
- John 1:35-51 The First Disciples
- John 1:1-18 Recognizing Real Life
- John 1:19-51: Willing to See
- John the Baptist--the Silence That Breaks the Silence
SINCLAIR FERGUSON
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH - sermon transcripts by Derek Thomas, David Strain, J Ligon Duncan, et al
- John 1:1-14 A Word in Your Ear
- John 1:1-14 John - On Christmas
- John 1:1-18 Nine Lessons and Carols
- John 1:1-18 The Word From Above
- John 1:1-14, 9-12, 14, 16-18 Christmas Through the Eyes of John
- John 1:1-18 The Word Became Flesh
- John 1:1-18 In the Beginning Was the Word
- John 1:1-14 Christmas Viewed from Afar: Heaven
- John 1:1 - Jesus is God
- John 1:14-18 We Have Seen His Glory
- John 1:14 The Saving Word
- John 1:19-34 A Voice in the Boonies
- John 1:1-14 Tell Me the Story of Jesus
- John 1:1 In the Beginning
- John 1:1-14 Tell Me the Story of Jesus
- The Person of Christ (outline)
- Mp3 Messages
- Systematic Theology (online) - scroll down to page 455 for "Person of Christ"
- Author's Preface to an Exegetical Commentary on John
- Background to the Study of John
- Major Differences Between John and the Synoptic Gospels
- John 1:1-18 Commentary - Exegetical
- John 1:19-51 Commentary - Exegetical
- John 1:1 The Word - in depth
- John 1:14 The Incarnation of the Word - in depth
- John 1:29 The Lamb of God - in depth
- John 1:40-42 Personal Service - in depth
- Introduction
- John 1:1-18 The Prologue Ministry of Jesus Christ
- John 1:19-51 The Preparatory Ministry of Jesus Christ
- John 20:30-31 The Word
- John 1:1-5 The Word of God: The Ages Past
- John 1:6-13 The Word of God in History Among the Jews
- John 1:14-18 The Word of God in History Among the Believers
- John 1:19-29 The Witness of John the Baptist
- John 1:29-34 John the Baptist and the Son of God
- John 1:35-42 The Call of the First Disciple
- John 1:43-51 Angels Ascending and Descending
- Repentance in the Gospel of John
- Declaring and Defending the Deity of Christ
- John 1:1-5 Jesus: The Divine Word
- John 1:1-18 The Word Made Flesh
- John 1:6-13 Jesus: The Divine Light
- John 1:14-18 Jesus: Glory, Grace, and God
- John 1:14-18 We Beheld His Glory
- John 1:19-37 The First Testimony Concerning Jesus, Part 1
- John 1:19-37 The First Testimony Concerning Jesus, Part 2
- John 1:38-51 The Disciples’ Testimony Concerning Jesus
- John 1 Jesus: The Eternal Word - Questions
- John 1:1-2 Why Does John Refer to Jesus as "the Word"? - Questions
- John 1 Seeing the Glory of Jesus - Questions
- John 1:14, Rev 7:15, 21:3 Three Tabernacles
- John 1:1-14 The Word in Eternity, in the World, and in the Flesh
- John 1:16 The Fulness of Christ
- John 1:17 Grace and Truth
- John 1:29 The World's Sin-Bearer
- John 1:37-39 The First Disciples: John And Andrew
- John 1:40-42 The First Disciples: Simon Peter
- John 1:43 The First Disciples: Philip
- John 1:45-49 The First Disciples: Nathanael
- John 1:50-51 The First Disciples: Believing and Seeing
HENRY MAHAN - Sermon transcripts on John - distinct from commentary
- John 1:1-14 Jesus Christ Is God Almighty
- John 1:6-07 The Preacher and His Message
- John 1:10-13 What Is it to Receive Christ
- John 1:12-13 The Sons of God
- John 1:14 The Word Was Made Flesh
- John 1:29 Behold the Lamb of God
MASTER'S BIBLE CHURCH - In depth
- Gospel of John - Sermons -
- John 1:1-3 The Word Was God
- John 1:4-8 A Light in the Darkness
- John 1:9-13 Light and Life for Man
- John 1:14 We Beheld His Glory
- John 1:15-18 Christ Jesus: Our All
- John 1:19-28 The Humility of Greatness
- John 1:29-34 Behold, the Lamb of God
- John 1:35-42 Words That Changed Lives
- John 1:43-45 Finding Jesus; Found by Jesus
- John 1:46-51 Spiritual Insight
- John 1:1 The Word
- John 1:2-3 The Word in Creation
- John 1:9 The Word as Light
- John 1:14 The Word Made Flesh
- John 1:18 The Word Declaring the Unseen God
- John 1:23, 29, 37 Three Memorable Days
- John 1:51 The Son of Man
- John 1:1-3 In the Beginning God
- John 1:1-9 The Clue to Life's Maze
- John 1:12 Life Abundant: Grace Abounding
- John 1:14 The Glory of Christ
- John 1:50 (ODH)
MONERGISM
- Preface
- John 20:30-31 The Writer's Account of His Book
- John 1:1, 14, 18 The Thesis
- John 1:2-13, 14, 15-17 The Parentheses
- John 1:9-34 Witness of the Herald Introduction of Jesus
- John 1:35-51-John 2:1-12 First Disciples and First Sign
ROBERT MORGAN SERMONS
Robert Morgan's sermons are packed with numerous interesting illustrations, stories and hymn quotes.
- John - Surprised by Joy! In Him Was Life
- John 1 - John's Gospel
- John 1:1,14 Incarnation
- John 1:1-3 In the Manger: The Maker of the Milky Way
- John 1:1 And the Word Was God - 1
- John 1:1 And the Word Was God - 2
- John 1 Believe Series: Aslan's Song
- John 1:1-5 The Lamppost at Lantern Waste
- John 1:1-10 Flashlights and Mirrors at Christmas
- John 1:10-14 Once He's With Us, We Can Do Things
- John 1:1-18 One Blessing After Another" - A Verse for the New Year
- John 1:19-51
- John 1:29 Mary Had a Little Lamb
- John 1:49-2:11
- John 1 Commentary Notes from Defender's Study Bible - see links on right side of page
FAVELL LEE MORTIMER
| Resurrection: The Skeptic Confronted | John | Resurrection; Easter | J. Mike Minnix |
| It's A Risk Worth Taking | John | Salvation; Hypocrisy; Nicodemus | Franklin L. Kirksey |
| I Can Experience God's Presence Now and Always | John 1 | God, Presence of; Christmas; Jesus, Birth of | Mark Adams |
| The First Christmas Gifts | John 1 | Christmas; Birth of Jesus | J. Mike Minnix |
| The World's Greatest Blunder | John 1 :10-11 | Salvation; Christ, Rejection of | W.A. Criswell |
| The Unopened Christmas Gift | John 1 :11-18 | Christmas, Gift, God's | J. Mike Minnix |
| God Is Here! | John 1 :1-18 | Birth of Jesus; Jesus, Nature of; Christmas | Mark Adams |
| The Birth of Jesus | John 1 :1-18 | Christmas; Birth of Jesus; Son of God | Mark Adams |
| He Lives | John 1 :1-3 | Resurrection of Jesus; Easter | Jesse M. Hendley |
| Jesus - The Promised Finalized | John 1 :14 | Jesus, Birth of; Christmas; Jesus in Prophecy | Steve Wagers |
| The Grace That Saves Christmas | John 1 :14-17 | Christmas; Birth of Christ; Jesus, Birth of; Grace | J. Mike Minnix |
| Grateful For Grace | John 1 :17 | Grace; Love of God; Joy | Donnie L. Martin |
| The Story of Jesus - The Baptist's Faith and Message | John 1 :19-36 | Faith; Belief | David E. Owen |
| To The Wondering Heart, Jesus Says, Come and See | John 1 :29-42 | Jesus, Invitation of; Assurance; Operation Andrew | David E. Owen |
| The Life Of Discipleship - The Andrew Model Beholding The Best | John 1 :35-40 | Discipleship | David E. Owen |
| Operation Andrew | John 1 :35-42 | Evangelism; Operation Andrew | James O. Coldiron |
| Operation Andrew | John 1 :35-42 | Witnessing; Operation Andrew | Gary Cobb |
| The First Christ Followers | John 1 :35-51 | Discipleship; Jesus Followers; Operation Andrew | Mark Adams |
| The Story of Jesus - Calling the Disciples | John 1 :35-51 | Disciples, Calling the; Operation Andrew | David E. Owen |
| Andrew - The Bringer | John 1 :36-42 | Operation Andrew; Evangelism; Witnessing | J. Mike Minnix |
| The Gospel According To You | John 1 :36-42 | Operation Andrew; Evangelism; Soul Winning; Witnessing | James O. Coldiron |
| Andrew's Witnessing Strategy | John 1 :40 | Soul Winning; Evangelism; Witnessing; Operation Andrew | John Bisagno |
| Operation Andrew | John 1 :40-42 | Soul Winning; Witnessing; Evangelism; Operation Andrew | Adrian Rogers |
| Inviting Others | John 1 :40-42 | Witnessing; Andrew; Church Growth | Johnny Hunt |
| Bringing People To Jesus | John 1 :41 | Evangelism; Operation Andrew; Soul Winning; Witnessing | Jesse M. Hendley |
| The Life Of Discipleship -The Andrew Model Bringing A Brother | John 1 :41-42 | Discipleship | David E. Owen |
| The Crux of Christianity | John 1 :43 | Discipleship; Jesus, Following | Franklin L. Kirksey |
| One | John 1 :45-49 | Soul Winning; Evangelism;Operation Andrew | Johnny Hunt |
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Christ, the Eternal Word (John 1:1-13)
- 3. Christ, the Word Incarnate (John 1:14-18)
- 4. Christ's Forerunner (John 1:19-34)
- 5. Christ and His First Disciples (John 1:35-51)
- John 1:1-3 In the Beginning Was the Word
- John 1:1-5 Triumphant Light
- John 1:1-13 In Him Was Life
- John 1:1-14 Faith: Unique and Fruitful Effect of the New Birth
- John 1:1-18 The Word Was God and Became Flesh
- John 1:1-18 The Word Was Made Flesh
- John 1:6-8 John Was Not the Light, but a Witness to the Light
- John 1:6-8 A Burning Witness to the Light
- John 1:9-13 How to Become a Child of God
- John 1:6-8 A Burning Witness to the Light
- John 1:14-18 The Word Became Flesh
- John 1:14-18 We Beheld His Glory, Full of Grace and Truth
- John 1:14-18 From His Fullness We Have All Received
- John 1:19-34 Behold the Lamb of God
- John 1:25-34 This Is He Who Baptizes with the Holy Spirit
- John 1:35-51 We Have Found the Messiah
- John 1:43-51 Son of God, Son of Man, King of Israel
- John 1:43-51 Probability, Prejudice, and Christ
- John 1:10-13 Backstage at Bethlehem
- John 1:12-13 The Decision You Must Make
- John 1:14 When Did Christmas Begin?
- John 1:29 Christ B.C. Part II: Lamb of God Exodus 12
- John 1:1–18
- John 1:1
- John 1:3
- John 1:4
- John 1:5
- John 1:7, 9
- John 1:9
- John 1:11
- John 1:12
- John 1:13
- John 1:14
- John 1:15
- John 1:16
- John 1:17
- John 1:18
- John 1:19
- John 1:21
- John 1:23
- John 1:29
- John 1:31
- John 1:33
- John 1:34
- John 1:35–51
- John 1:37
- John 1:45
- John 1:46
- John 1:47
- John 1:49
- John 1:50
- John 1:51
RICK RENNER
Renner writes "I know of no great Christian leader who hasn't faced some kind of opposition as he or she sought to do God's will. But the truth is that darkness does not have the power to overcome light! Every believer can overcome any attack if he or she won't quit first!" (Read the entire Devotional)
- John 20:30-31 Introduction to the Gospel of John
- John 1:1-18 When God Became a Human Being!
- John 1:1-5 Who is Jesus, Part 1
- John 1:19-34 The First Witness
- John 1:14-18 Who is Jesus, Part 2
- John 1:29 Behold the Lamb!
- John 1:35-51 What do you Seek?
- John 1:1 The Divinity of Christ
- John 1:9 Christ the Only True Light
- John 1:10 Benefit of Receiving Christ
- John 1:13 Christians Born of God
- John 1:14 Incarnation and Character of Christ
- John 1:16 The Believer's Interest in Christ's Fulness
- John 1:18 The Manifestation Which Christ Has Given the Father
- John 1:29 Christ the Lamb of God
- John 1:45 Sight of Jesus, A Source of Joy
- John 1:46 Evil and Cure of Prejudice
- John 1:47 An Israelite Indeed
- John 1:1 Sermon Notes
- John 1:1-14 Sermon Notes
- John 1:1, 2, 14 Sermon Notes
- John 1:11-13 Sermon Notes
- John 1:14 Sermon Notes
- John 1:14 Sermon Notes
- John 1:18 Sermon Notes
RUSSELL SMITH
- John 1:1-18 Rediscovering Jesus
- John 1:19-42 A Trustworthy Messenger
- John 1:43-51 The Gospel for Cynics
- John 1 Commentary - exposition
- John 1:11 Ingratitude of Man
- John 1:11-13: The Preacher’s Last Sermon for the Season
- John 1:11-13: The Simplicity and Sublimity of Salvation
- John 1:11-13 Faith and Its Attendant Privileges
- John 1:12, 13 Open Heart for the Great Savior
- John 1:12 The New Year’s Guest
- John 1:14 The Glory of Christ—Beheld!
- John 1:14,17: The True Tabernacle & Its Glory of Grace & Peace
- John 1:16 The Fulness and the Filling
- John 1:16 The Fullness of Jesus the Treasury of Saints
- John 1:16 the Fullness of Christ—Received!
- John 1:29 The Baptist’s Message
- John 1:29. The Baptist's Message - sermon notes
- John 1:47. The Israelite Indeed - sermon notes
- John 1:29 Behold the Lamb of God
- John 1:29 The Lamb of God
- John 1:35-36: The Lamb of God in Scripture
- John 1:36: Behold the Lamb!
- John 1:37; Mt 4:18, 19; 10:1, 2 Peter’s Three Calls
- John 1:37-51 The First Five Disciples
- John 1:39 20:12 Two Loving Invitations
- John 1:42 Everyday Usefulness
- John 1:43-45: Found by Jesus, and Finding Jesus
- John 1:45 Finding and Following Christ
- John 1:45-51 Nathanael and the Fig Tree
- John 1:47 Nathanael—The Man Needed for the Day
- John 1:50 Nathanael—Or, the Ready Believer and His Reward
- John 1:50, 51 Greater Things Yet Who Shall See Them
- John 1:7 - Devotional
- John 1:14 - Devotional
- John 1:16 - Devotional
- John 1:41 - Devotional
- John 1:1-4 Who is Jesus?
- John 1:5-13 Hello Darkness
- John 1:14-18 The Stranger of Galilee
- John 1:19-34 Call the First Witness
- John 1:35-51 The Man Who Knew Men
- John Introduction - some nice charts
- John 1:1-18 The Man Who Became God
- John 1:19-28 The Witness of John - nice charts on chronology
- John 1:29-34 The Lamb Who Became A Son
- John 1:35-42 In the Presence of Jesus
- John 1:43-51 Encounters with God
- John 1 John and the Coming King
- John 1:19-34 Meet the Lamb of God
- John 1:35-2:12 Jesus Gathers Disciples
TIM TEMPLE Sermons on John
- Introduction to the Gospel of John
- Introduction to the Son of God
- John 1
- The Light in the Darkness
- The Voice in the Wilderness
- The Inception of Ministry
- Prologue: Jesus the Word of God - John 1:1-18
- Jesus is the Word - John 1:1-2
- Jesus Christ, God and Man: How Can a Man Be God?
- Through him all things were made - John 1:3
- In him was life - John 1:4-5
- There came a man who was sent from God - John 1:6-9
- The right to become children of God - John 1:10-13
- The Word became flesh - John 1:14
- From the fullness of his grace - John 1:15-18
- Jesus: His Public Ministry - John 1:19-12:50
- Jesus' Kingdom Ministry Begins - John 1:19-51
- John the Baptist: The Voice of God - John 1:19-28
- Jesus: The Covenant Lamb of God - John 1:29-34
- Jesus' First Disciples - John 1:35-51
DAVID THOMPSON - SERMONS - conservative, evangelical
Transcripts averaging about 5 pages and organized as "Facts" Thompson has gleaned from the text. His analysis is well done.
- Introduction to John (Part 1)
- Introduction to John (Part 2)
- Introduction to John (Part 3)
- John 1:1-5
- John 1:6-8
- John 1:9-13
- John 1:14-18
- John 1:19-34
- John 1:35-42
- John 1:43-51
STEVE ZEISLER SERMONS
SERMONS BY VERSE - OLDER EXPOSITIONS