Summary
This volume gathers early Christian reflections on John 11 to 21, covering Lazarus, the farewell discourses, the passion, resurrection, and restoration of Peter. The extracts are organised by verse, aiming to bring historic theological reading into the hands of todays preacher. The tone is often reverent, doctrinal, and pastoral.
Strengths
The passion and resurrection sections benefit from the devotion and seriousness of older writers. The comments can deepen your sense of the glory of Christ in suffering, the meaning of resurrection, and the pastoral weight of restoration and commissioning. Many extracts also help with application, calling the church to faith, love, and perseverance.
Limitations
As a catena, it does not provide sustained explanation of the discourses or the narrative arc. Historical context and linguistic detail are not its focus. Some extracts reflect theological debates that may be unfamiliar to modern readers, and at times the interpretative move is asserted rather than demonstrated from the passage.
How We Would Use It
Preach John with close contextual reading and a strong modern commentary for structure. Then use this volume to gather theological reflections that enrich proclamation, especially in Holy Week, resurrection preaching, and teaching on assurance and perseverance.
Closing Recommendation
A strong supplementary resource for advanced readers, particularly in the later chapters of John. It will reward careful use, provided you keep the text and its context in command.
Joel C. Elowsky
Joel C. Elowsky is an American Lutheran scholar known for his work in patristic biblical interpretation.
He has edited and contributed to major projects that collect and translate early Christian commentary on Scripture, making the voices of the fathers accessible to modern readers. His scholarship highlights the theological depth and pastoral concerns present in early exegesis.
Elowsky is appreciated for careful editorial work and for fostering renewed interest in the history of interpretation. His contribution helps pastors and students engage Scripture with greater historical awareness and doctrinal attentiveness.
Theological Perspective: Lutheran