The Gospel of John vs the Hebrew Bible

John’s gospel stands apart. Its soaring prologue introduces the Word (Logos) as pre‑existent and divine. It records signs and discourses absent from the other gospels. Frans Hansen’s audit asks: do John’s identity claims align with the categories of the Hebrew Bible? The answer is often no. The Fourth Gospel leaps beyond Tanakh boundaries, redefining terms and demanding belief on the basis of signs.

The book examines how John uses “I AM” statements, miracles and poetic imagery to elevate Jesus’ status. Hansen compares these passages to their Old Testament counterparts and shows where John’s language stretches beyond covenantal categories. The audit highlights how John’s focus on personal belief and eternal life shifts the conversation away from law and community. It also considers how Greek philosophy influences John’s concept of the Logos, contrasting it with the Hebrew concept of divine speech.

Rather than attacking faith, this book equips readers with tools to discern when scripture is being repurposed. It demonstrates that reverence for Jesus need not require accepting claims that conflict with the Torah. For those exploring exvangelical paths, understanding how John’s gospel diverges from its Jewish roots is key.

Related Books

Expand your study with these investigations:

• THE GOSPEL OF JOHN VS. THE HEBREW BIBLE — tests John’s biggest theological leaps under Tanakh-defined terms, not church-defined conclusions.
• THE GOSPEL OF LUKE VS. THE HEBREW BIBLE — a line-by-line audit of how Luke relocates Tanakh meaning while claiming continuity.