This is the introduction to our 2026 study of John. If you would like to do this series again, allow yourself 12 months. John did write more than one book, which we also mention in this study. 

We are beginning to look at John mid-lent of 2026. As part of our Lentdiscipline, we did a 10-dayDaniel fast, which is a good start for beginners or for those who have been away from fasting. 

We did look at a detailed fast menu for the Daniel fast. This is a practice you will grow into, as the Spirit leads you.

A lead light window depicting the image of an eagle associated with the Gospel of John.

Who was John?

John was a disciple of Jesus who became an apostle of The Lord after the crucifixion and resurrection.

John is the author of the Gospel of John, three New Testament epistles (1, 2, and 3 John), and the Book of Revelation. 

Based on 2 Timothy 3:16, we believe that scripture is divine and supernatural. Even though each author has a different life and experiences, this is the common thread.

John was present at the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and was entrusted by Jesus himself to take care of Mary, the mother of Jesus. He died of natural causes in old age, having lived a truly committed life to God the Father. 

Theology

In the 2nd Century AD, the church assigned images and symbols to the Gospels. These are intertwined with prophecy and scripture regarding their ministry, as well as that of our forefathers in carrying The Word to future generations.

The Eagle is the image associated with John, it is seen in artwork and in cathedrals and churches worldwide.

The 2nd Century AD is dominated by the Roman Empire. 

Around 800 AD, the Book of Kells was created, featuring the 4 gospels. It was moved to Dublin, Ireland and can be viewed at Trinity College, Dublin. 

Mid-Lent Themes and Readings

John 6, Jesus is the Bread of Life

John 8, Jesus is the Light of the World 

John 9, Man born blind

Holy Week technically starts on Palm Sunday, 29th March, but you can give yourself until the beginning of April, before Thursday, 2nd, to read those chapters and recognise some of those themes before the start of our Easter Readings.

We have already tackled the Bread of Life by taking action with our fast, which recognises that He is our Bread and sustains our life. 

Having known Darlene personally, I can add that she is the real deal, having given her life wholly to The Lord.

The Light is a theme in John, Jesus is the Light vs. Darkness.

The man born blind is also a parable representative of our blindness to God and how he changes us. It also represents the miracles of Jesus ministry. 

This article will be updated after Easter for those who want to join our study at a later date.