In | “Life” and “Kingdom” in John and Synoptics

John uses a somewhat different vocabulary than the other Gospel writers. Some of the themes and images that dominate the Synoptics are featured less in John. One significant difference in John’s vocabulary is the way he moves away from the expected use of “kingdom” language and relies more on language of “life.”

This trend of changing out themes of “kingdom” for themes of “life” will continue later in the New Testament with other books attributed to John and/or representing a “Johannine” perspective.

The difference between the Synoptic Gospels and the Johannine books represents a shift in theological language and perspective, but John is not preaching a different Gospel. He is preaching the same message and the same Jesus, in terms that are more helpful in communicating his distinctive emphasis and approach.

So why does John adjust his language in this way? Some have suggested that John was concerned that his listeners might confuse Jesus’ “kingdom” with earthly politics. Ultimately, we’ll never know. In any event, it’s important to acknowledge this point of emphasis in John so we know what we’re looking for as we explore his Gospel.

Source: Andreas J. Köstenberger, A Theology of John’s Gospel and Letters, 2009, p. 286.