Abstract
This important volume on the christology and theology of the fourth gospel consists of seven essays translated from the collection of essays in the volume Die Herrlichkeit des Gekreuzigten published by Mohr Siebeck in 2013, as well as four more recent essays. The present volume is arranged in five parts. The first contains one essay entitled ‘Approaches to the Interpretation of John’ (pp. 3–36). The chapter is essential a meta-level reflection on the hermeneutical approach that Frey will adopt in his commentary in the EKK series on John. He advocates a multifaceted approach, and while recognising the Christological concerns of the text he sees a wider theological agenda at work. Thus he states, ‘the Gospel of John also presents an independent and creative theological achievement, an innovative reflection on the way of Jesus of Nazareth, and that in developing this presentation it aims to stimulate its readers to think through anew matters pertaining to their understanding of the Jesus story and to its relevance to its own life’ (p. 35). Thus Frey perceives the fourth gospel to seek a wide theological agenda and impact for later generations of readers.
The second part of the volume groups three essays under the heading of ‘the Character of John’s Gospel.’ Topics such as the Jews and the parting of the ways (pp. 39–72), fusing of temporal horizons (pp. 73–99), and Johannine dualism (pp. 101–167) are treated in turn. These are classic topics of research in relation to the fourth gospel and Frey presents important insights in each of this interrelated areas. Part three, ‘Death, Resurrection, and Glory’ comprises three essays—one on each of those topics. Frey argues that the author is cognizant of those who can no longer participate directly in the Easter experience. Thus, ‘[t]he goal of the Fourth Gospel’s distinctive presentation of Christ is that believers of later times see Jesus’ δόξα (17:24)’ (p. 258). Then in part four, ‘Christology and Theology’, Frey considers the presentation of both Jesus and God in the fourth gospel, and significantly considers the relationship between the two in the ninth chapter entitles ‘Jesus as the Image of God in the Gospel of John’ (pp. 285–312). Exploring the explanation of the link in the fourth gospel Frey states ‘[i]n the history of the Son of God who was sent into the world, crucified and exalted, God’s nature and thus the invisible God himself became “visible.”’ (p. 311). The final chapter, which constitutes part five, discusses the link and contribution of Johannine theology to wider New Testament theology.
This is a suggestive and rich set of essays that encourages readers to think in fresh ways not just about individual Johannine themes, but about the links between these themes and the evangelist’s reasons for tackling this set of themes in the manner they are presented. There are new insights in every essay. As such this volume is an important contribution to the continuing task of understanding the theological message of the Gospel of John.