Reading Biblical Literature: Genesis to Revelation Season 1 Episode 28 Self-Giving Love According to John

In season 1 episode 28 of Reading Biblical Literature: Genesis to Revelation, titled Self-Giving Love According to John, viewers are taken on a journey through the book of John in the New Testament. This episode focuses on the theme of self-giving love, which is a central concept in John's writing.

The host begins by discussing the concept of love and how it can be interpreted in different ways. He then introduces John and his gospel, explaining that John's view of love is different from that of the other gospel writers. John emphasizes the importance of self-giving love, which he believes is the ultimate expression of God's love for humanity.

Throughout the episode, the host examines several key passages from the book of John that highlight this theme of self-giving love. He first looks at the story of the washing of the disciples' feet, where Jesus humbly serves his followers as an act of love. The host discusses how this act of service exemplifies the idea of self-giving love and encourages viewers to think about ways in which they can show love to others through acts of service.

Next, the host examines the famous verse John 3:16, which states that "God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son." Through this verse, John expresses the idea that love involves sacrifice and giving of oneself. The host explains the significance of this verse in the context of John's gospel and how it reflects John's view of God's love for humanity.

The host also spends time discussing the story of the raising of Lazarus, which he argues is a powerful example of self-giving love. In this story, Jesus raises his friend Lazarus from the dead, overcoming death itself as an act of love. The host examines the theological implications of this story and how it relates to John's view of love and salvation.

Finally, the host concludes the episode by discussing John's view of the relationship between love and obedience. He argues that John believes that love and obedience are intimately linked, and that true love involves a commitment to following God's will. The host encourages viewers to think about their own obedience to God's commands and how they can show love through their actions.

Overall, Self-Giving Love According to John is a thought-provoking episode that explores the theme of love in the book of John. Through a close examination of several key passages, viewers are encouraged to reflect on the nature of self-giving love and how they can demonstrate this kind of love in their own lives.