Introduction
Introduction
In writing this commentary it has been our aim to achieve the following objectives:
(1) A careful translation of the text. This translation must be in present-day, idiomatic English and must be true to the original. It should not be a mere paraphrase. On the contrary, it should follow the text very closely, bringing out its emphasis wherever it is possible to do so.
(2) A more thorough discussion of introductory problems than is found in many commentaries, with special emphasis on the problems of authorship.
(3) A brief analysis of the text, entering into its concepts and relationships. Central passages, such as 3:16, should be treated more fully than others.
(4) A synthesis at the close of each large thought-unit, so that the main ideas of a section are brought out clearly. Analysis should always be followed by synthesis. Exegesis includes both. Otherwise one sees the trees, but not the forest.
(5) A defence of the conservative position. We believe that the Gospel of John demands this.
(6) An up-to-date presentation. During recent years there has been advance along many lines of New Testament scholarship. Important books treating certain phases of the subject have appeared from time to time; also, excellent articles in religious journals, shedding new light on the meaning of certain words and phrases (e.g., John 2:4; 4:9). Doctoral dissertations have been submitted, dealing with concepts of frequent occurrence in the Fourth Gospel. Such materials have been utilized. We have prepared a Select Bibliography, and this we hope to include in the next volume (on John 7–21).
(7) A complete summary of certain grammatical constructions which have a high frequency rate in this Gospel. References throughout the text of the commentary to important points of grammar and syntax, without overloading the commentary with such material, so that one who is not conversant with Greek would have to lay it aside. An attempt to do justice to the valuable elements in the Aramaic theory, without assuming a written, Aramaic original.
We are well aware of the fact that these objectives have not been fully achieved. Nevertheless, the kind reception given to our earlier works encouraged us to make the effort. May the One whose love is set forth in this Gospel receive the glory.
William Hendriksen