Among people who read the Bible, some barely scratch the surface; others want to delve deeper and gain a better understanding of its original meaning and significance for today. This commentary will aid the latter category of people. Cornelis Bennema presents the study of John's Gospel as an archeological expedition at the site of John's Gospel where one digs up its meaning and applies it to today's context. If you are ready for some mental effort, perspiration, and dirty hands, you will soon realize that beneath the surface of John's Gospel there is a treasure to be discovered. Written in everyday language, this commentary will help one to get a deeper understanding and appreciation of God's message for today. Excerpt from the foreword: ""Now in this commentary he Bennema] takes us through the gospel in a way that is scholarly but not technical, bringing out the original author's meaning, but also reflecting on its relevance. The gospel is simple, but profound, and the commentary is similar--easy to follow, but full of insight."" - David Wenham, Trinity College, Bristol, UK ""This is a fresh and helpful look at the Gospel of John. Dr. Bennema treats the biblical text with respect and yet is not afraid to suggest that in certain passages in the Gospel, it is very likely that the right interpretation is not the conventional. Besides, his concern to help his readers understand the text contextually is reflected right through the commentary. This work can be warmly recommended to all those who read the Word so that they might gladly submit to its authority."" -- Brian C. Wintle Regional Secretary India, Asia Theological Association ""Bennema's book presents us with a rare mix. On the one hand, one finds a thorough exegetical and theological engagement with the issues in the text...On the other hand, Bennema continues to challenge his readers in 'Reflection' sections, containing implications and possible applications of the text for today. Issues like poverty, AIDS, and postmodernism are raised in the light of the Johannine message...Excavating John's Gospel comes with all the tools that you need to dig up the Johannine soil and make it fruitful for your life and for the world around you. I commend it for its breadth, depth and relevance."" --Volker Rabens, Theological Seminary Adelshofen, Germany Cornelius Bennema is Assistant Professor of New Testament Department at the South Asia Institute of Advanced Christian Studies (SAIACS; http: //www.saiacs.org) in Bangalore, India. He is the author of The Power of Saving Wisdom: An Investigation of Spirit and Wisdom in Relation to the Soteriology of the Fourth Gospel (Mohr Siebeck, 2002).
