But Now I See: Eye-Opening Light from the Gospel of John

by Gerald M. Bilkes

The Gospel of John witnesses to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Yet it is apparent from John’s account that not everyone who perceived Jesus with their physical eyes saw Him for who He truly is. In But Now I See, Gerald M. Bilkes walks us through a study of this gospel, sharing the same intent as the apostolic author, “that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name” (John 20:31). As you read about how Jesus is the light; the Lamb of God; the way, the truth, the life; the resurrection; the Vine; and so much more, may you also come to say, “We beheld his glory” (John 1:14).

Contents

Preface

The Word, the Lamb, the LadderA New RealityThe Encounter at NightThe Encounter at NoonThe Voice of MercyBread and HarvestA Feast and a FountainThe Light of FreedomNow I SeeThe Shining ShepherdThe Resurrection and the LifeThe Corn of WheatThe Form of a ServantThe Way, the Truth, and the LifeAbide in My LoveThe Comfort of a Triune GodFather, I WillThe King of TruthSeeing the Lamb of GodMy Lord and My GodIt Is the LordPostscript

Endorsements

“With theological insight, unobtrusive exegetical precision, practical application, and personal passion, Bilkes expounds the message of John’s Gospel. Although not a verse-by-verse commentary, But Now I See recounts the biblical narrative chapter by chapter in such a way that light is always shining on Jesus in all the beauty and wonder of His person and work. In many ways, Bilkes’s exposition echoes the purpose of John’s first epistle, that the reader “may know him that is true” (1 John 5:20). At the end of each chapter are soul-searching questions to generate personal reflection as to whether we are seeing Jesus. The preacher in Bilkes shines as brightly as his scholarship. This is a helpful companion resource for reading the Gospel of John.”
—Michael Barrett, senior research professor of the Old Testament, Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids

“In But Now I See, Gerald Bilkes helps us to see the glory of Jesus revealed in the Gospel of John. In short, devotional chapters, Bilkes leads us through the gospel, providing rich insights, warm encouragement, and personal applications. Whether we are coming to see Jesus for the first time or have been gazing at His glory for a lifetime, this book shows us more of Him who is the light of the world.”
—Murray Smith, lecturer in biblical theology and exegesis, Christ College, Sydney

About the Author

Gerald M. Bilkes is vice president as well as professor of homiletics and biblical studies at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids. He has authored several books and preaches and speaks at churches and conferences worldwide.

208 pages, Paperback

Published March 11, 2025

About the author

Gerald M. Bilkes is professor of New Testament and biblical theology at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids.

Reviews

[Bobby Bonser · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good little devotional-based synopsis on John's gospel with study questions after each chapter. This is not meant to be a commentary but probably more of a reflective aid on the book. It could be used as a reading companion as you read a chapter at a time to give a little more depth or reflection on that chapter without diving into Greek, exposition etc. Think of it as pulling out 4-5 main points from each chapter.

Overall it was helpful, though if you try to read it through you'll find it perhaps a bit disjointed. The sections don't flow together or read like a normal book. I think this is by design but I found it a bit hard to follow, regardless.

I also personally disagree with the Sabbath/Lord's Day implications the author posits in the book. Instead of exegesis, there is eisigesis as he asks how we can prove from the passage of Jesus visiting the disciples on a Sunday that "the whole day belongs to God".

I am not used to reading the KJV so that choice throughout the book was a bit distracting as well.

Despite this, the gospel is clear and the book is encouraging as it focuses on Christ! It could be a helpful companion or aid to any who wish to dive into John.

[Timothy Denning · Rating 5 out of 5]

The gospel of John is majestic and serene, simple and mysterious all at the same time. This gospel was applied by the Holy Spirit, who inspired it, has drawn many to see the glory of Christ and to see everything else in the light of him. From the introduction. A well written devotional commentary on John, with questions, could easily be used as a Bible study.