Francis J. Moloney

Love in the Gospel of John by Francis J. Moloney is a scholarly study, but is not written at a level that excludes sincere, careful readers. Many messages presented by Moloney from John's gospel can open the reader's eyes to a better understanding of the lessons which he believes are at the core of John's gospel. This very brief review will highlight some of the lessons which resonated particularly with this reader.

Believing in Jesus because of the works/signs he does, is not enough for authentic faith because Christian belief "cannot be reduced to an intellectual experience…authentic faith must be accompanied by an unconditional acceptance of the word of Jesus, who is himself the word.(1,1; 14) Anything short of that is insufficient". (41) Faith must be accompanied by doing God's will.(44)

According to Moloney, there is the misconception that Jesus came to die on the cross. Moloney claims: "The glorification of Jesus does not happen on the cross. He is glorified by means of the cross. Jesus will be glorified only when…through the cross and resurrection he returns to the glory he had with the father before all time…"(53)

Moloney points out that Jesus has been sent to do the will of him who sent him. Then he asks, what has Jesus been sent to do? "The task of Jesus is to give eternal life. Jesus explains immediately, 'And this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.'"(54)

This study will provide insight and inspiration for readers who love the Gospel of John and for those who are trying to better understand the Gospel message.… (mer)