Gospel of John 09.vp

Sess ion 1: The Word Made F l esh, the Word Made F i lm: Int roduct ion 27

3. Engage the text itself in dialogue

D. Implications of this method

1. Allow us to visually experience an interpretation of the text as a kind of living visual aid of what the scene could have entailed and involved

2. Provide us with a launching pad from which to begin our own exegetical engagement of the text itself

3. Give a model of how to dialogue with Scripture using a piece of art as an integral part of the curriculum

4. Recognition that the representation is not the report : the report of the Scriptures must govern and determine all understandings and depictions of the art.

Conclusion and Review of the Major Concepts of Introduction to John

• John’s Gospel is a critical and refreshing report of the mystery of the Christ , Jesus of Nazareth.

• Jesus of Nazareth is the thematic and prophetic core of the Gospel of John: He is the Messiah foretold by the prophets, the eternal Son of God who came to redeem the world. • Historical narratives in the Bible are 1) carefully worded and constructed reports of 2) actual historical events told for 3) our spiritual edification and 4) our personal enjoyment . • The use of representations in biblical exegesis must be guided by faithful commitment to the actual Scriptural text being displayed: the representation is not the report .