The Fourth Gospel has been known as the “spiritual gospel” since the second century, but only recently have biblical scholars attempted to express the unique spirituality found in that sacred text. Surprisingly, no consensus has emerged even after a century of research. Thus, while John’s Gospel is widely admired as a vibrant source of Christian piety, the distinct features of its spirituality remain unclear. Fr. Fiore addresses this problem from the fresh perspective of spiritual theology. Capitalizing on a century of Johannine biblical scholarship, he uses the interdisciplinary methods of spiritual theology to bring new data to the study of the Gospel and solutions to many lingering questions: How did ancient readers understand what scholars now refer to as the Gospel’s spirituality? How does that ecclesial reading compare to the analysis of modern critical exegesis? What makes Johannine spirituality special among other forms of Christian piety? How does the question of the Gospel’s authorship impact our understanding of its spirituality? Does the Gospel contain what we now call “mysticism”? In what ways is John’s spirituality still relevant for Christians today? Students of Christian spirituality and Johannine exegesis alike will find here stimulating historical and theological analysis of the Gospel’s spirituality.

The Fourth Gospel has been known as the “spiritual gospel” since the second century, but only recently have biblical scholars attempted to express the unique spirituality found in that sacred text. Surprisingly, no consensus has emerged even after a century of research. Thus, while John’s Gospel is widely admired as a vibrant source of Christian piety, the distinct features of its spirituality remain unclear. Fr. Fiore addresses this problem from the fresh perspective of spiritual theology. Capitalizing on a century of Johannine biblical scholarship, he uses the interdisciplinary methods of spiritual theology to bring new data to the study of the Gospel and solutions to many lingering questions: How did ancient readers understand what scholars now refer to as the Gospel’s spirituality? How does that ecclesial reading compare to the analysis of modern critical exegesis? What makes Johannine spirituality special among other forms of Christian piety? How does the question of the Gospel’s authorship impact our understanding of its spirituality? Does the Gospel contain what we now call “mysticism”? In what ways is John’s spirituality still relevant for Christians today? Students of Christian spirituality and Johannine exegesis alike will find here stimulating historical and theological analysis of the Gospel’s spirituality.

Research on "following Jesus" has mostly been done in terms of what Jesus' followers ought to do. In this unprecedented study, Kim presents "following Jesus" in John's Gospel through the perspective of what Jesus does for his followers. "Following Jesus" is a journey towards the place where Jesus leads his followers, that is, to a relationship with the Father. It is ultimately participating in the Son's communion with the Father. Jesus, who was in the bosom of the Father, descended from him and ascends to him, taking his followers with him, so that they may be with him where he is with the Father in glory and love. Kim develops this thesis by examining the term akolouthein ("to follow") and correlated motifs in John's Gospel.

Synopsis: "The Hidden Mysteries of St. John's Gospel" is a profound exploration that delves into the rich tapestry of interpretations found in the Gospel of John. Spanning across various religious traditions, this book offers a comprehensive study of the Gospel's verses, encompassing 1. Catholic Tradition, 2. Orthodox Tradition, 3. Protestantism, 4. Evangelicalism, 5. Liberal Christianity, and 6. Fundamentalism, as well as esoteric perspectives such as 7. Esoteric Christianity, 8. Gnosticism, 9. Hermeticism, 10. Christian Kabbalah, 11. Rosicrucianism, 12. Anthroposophy, and 13. Christian Mysticism. The reader embarks on an enlightening journey, meticulously deciphering each verse and uncovering hidden meanings through the eyes of different spiritual lenses. From traditional interpretations to mystical insights, the text weaves together a compelling narrative that transcends the boundaries of religious dogma and invites readers to explore the profound depths of spiritual understanding.

Through all of John's works, a consistent message is woven: being a Christian is about abiding in Christ and in his words. Combining exegesis with spiritual reflection, this accessible introduction on the Johannine literature from Rodney Reeves helps readers envision how to follow Jesus—as disciples, in community, and even at the end of the world.