The Expositor's Bible: The Gospel of St. John, Vol. II

A religious text written in the late 19th century. This volume serves as an in-depth commentary on the Gospel of John, particularly focusing on the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion and the theological implications of His life and teachings. It addresses the nature of belief, the significance of Jesus’ actions, and the essence of Christian faith as reflected in the life of Jesus. The opening of this volume presents a rich examination of pivotal moments from the Gospel of John, such as the anointing of Jesus, his entry into Jerusalem, and the growing tension between His followers and adversaries. Dods delves into the motivations behind the actions of figures like Mary, who anoints Jesus with expensive oil, and Judas, who questions her decision from a pragmatic perspective. The narrative emphasizes the contrast between faith and skepticism while foreshadowing Jesus’ impending sacrifice. As this volume progresses, it systematically illustrates how Jesus’ life and actions sparked both devotion among His followers and profound animosity from those in power, setting the stage for His sacrificial death, which the author argues is essential for understanding genuine Christian discipleship.