John for Everyone, Part 2: Chapters 11-21

Wright uses the method of presenting his own translation of a short section of this gospel, followed by a somewhat longer commentary also his own. Usually has two to four such sections to each chapter. The translation is complete, contemporary and easy to follow. Commentary sees the Bible as a whole, digs into meanings and backgrounds and implications, calls upon personal happenings and experiences to illustrate, and often raises discussable questions. Wright's Anglican background occasionally (rarely) peeks through a little bit. Excellent.

Bishop Wright is CS Lewis for the 21st century. His two books about The Gospel of John are a sufficient introduction to that gospel for any Christian enquirer even at the most basic level but (and here is Tom Wright's real gift), they are never simplistic. Bishop Wright doesn't skirt the tough issues but he takes care to stick to the important points. He never confuses the beginner with too much esoterica. Unlike other brief commentaries, this author includes the full text of John's Gospel. Each section begins with the gospel text, followed by Bishop Wright's commentary. Highly recommended by me for inquirer's classes, junior high Sunday School, basic Bible classes for adults with no previous exposure to Holy Scripture, and for curious non-Christians ("New Testament for Dummies"). Although the author is a Bishop in the Church of England & most of his readers so far have probably been Anglicans, these are by no means parochial works. I see them as exerting a strong appeal to anyone who wants to begin the study of John's Gospel, regardless of their religious orientation or lack thereof.

This book is very easy to read. The reference materials is very relevant and the author catches the essence of each chapter to help readers to understand the heart of Jesus. Each section is also separated into a limited 'dosage' and hence it can help all readers, including those who cannot afford long attention span to read and benefit from it too.

Author N. T. Wright provides a wonderful translation of scripture in modern vernacular that seems to speak to people of all ages, and from all walks of life. While I also like Peterson's modern language translation, "The Message," there are times that I prefer Wright's. His books are wonderful for sermon preparation and for Bible study groups, and I think they are advertised for the latter. Also, I like them for individualized study. His commentary meets people where they are; no talking head stuff. I recommend all of them very highly.

N.T. Wright's guides to all the books of the New Testament provide accessible commentary that is passionate, insightful, scholarly, thought provoking and inspiring. These guides are relevant to our lives today and are for everyone. I encourage you to enjoy this rare and wonderful gift! You won't stop at John - You will want to read/pray through them all!