A Historical and Theological Investigation of John's Gospel

This book provides original and controversial contributions into specific areas of Johannine studies, along with defenses of various traditional theological interpretations of John that are commonly overlooked in New Testament scholarship. Kirk R. MacGregor offers new insights into the authorship of the Fourth Gospel, the content of the underlying Signs Source, the meaning of the phrases “believe in him” and “believe in his name,” Jesus’ claim that Abraham saw his day, the significance of John 14.6, and why the resurrected Jesus upbraided Thomas. MacGregor employs the doctrine of middle knowledge to reconcile the seemingly paradoxical Johannine claims of divine predestination, genuine human freedom, and the universal divine salvific will. He defends the ontological equality but functional subordination of the Johannine Jesus to God the Father as well as the deity and personality of the Holy Spirit as presented by the Gospel of John.  

Kirk R. MacGregor is Associate Professor of Philosophy and Religion as well as Department Chair at McPherson College in McPherson, Kansas. He is the author of numerous books including Contemporary Theology: An Introduction (2019) and Luis de Molina: The Life and Theology of the Founder of Middle Knowledge (2015).

“Professor MacGregor's exciting new contribution to Johannine scholarship promises to spark an array of innovative inquiry into this challenging Gospel. With easy erudition and elegant prose, MacGregor unveils no fewer than ten fresh and provocative theses ranging among source theory, proto-Trinitarianism, elective decree, and even Jesus' salvific significance beyond Christianity. This volume challenges every thoughtful reader to ponder carefully how the Fourth Gospel shapes both faith and learning.” (Romwald Maczka, Professor Emeritus of Religion, Carthage College, USA)

“In A Historical and Theological Investigation of John’s Gospel, Dr. MacGregor draws on a variety of methodological approaches in an engaging, insightful, and highly successful effort to revitalize Johannine studies. No doubt, his book is destined to stimulate new scholarship. Longstanding majority and minority positions are challenged, opening up fresh, creative approaches towards understanding the Fourth Gospel. Highly recommended.” (John K. Simmons, Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies, Western Illinois University, USA)

 “In this truly interdisciplinary and stimulating examination of the Fourth Gospel, Kirk MacGregor adeptly interweaves modern biblical scholarship, historical and philosophical theology, interreligious dialogue, and contemporary theological concerns, challenging readers from all fields to read the text afresh. This is theological exegesis of the highest caliber, accomplishing something that is rarely achieved in the field: actually being both theological and exegetical!”(Tyler Atkinson, Associate Professor of Religion, Bethany College, USA)