Under an Open Heaven: A New Way of Life Revealed in John's Gospel

by John E. Johnson

When the gospel of John was written, the world was in turmoil. Jerusalem was collapsing, the empire was eroding, and the church was fighting for its life. The early believers needed a theology to strengthen their souls and steady their nerves--a theology found in this often enigmatic gospel. In our similar times of turbulence, we too need to know that the abundant life under the opened heaven John describes is not just conceivable--it's a promise. John E. Johnson is determined to reveal the relevance of John's gospel to today's Christian. To do so, he explores various conversations found in its pages and applies them to our modern world. Jesus converses with family, answers the questions of religious leaders, and steps into dialogue with people whose names we never know but whose struggles we can relate to. They aren't always straightforward chats, Johnson readily admits. Yet that is what makes them so beautifully applicable to the messiness of life. For readers tired of living confined lives, frustrated by failure, or starving in the midst of plenty, the conversations in John tell them life doesn't have to stay small. There is a whole new world made possible under God's open heaven.

265 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 27, 2017

Reviews

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author of this book brings up some great points and many different things to consider. I like how he walks through the book of John and examines many of the things we have all become very familiar with and gives things a new spin or deeper understanding.
But for me this book didn’t hold my interest. As I have said in previous reviews non-fiction books really have to grab me in order for me to like them and although this book had a lot of great content it did’t grab me. I found myself easily distracted, thinking about other things and not focusing on the book.
As always, this is my opinions only. It is a good book with good content it just wasn’t for me but I am sure for someone else this book will speak deeply to them.

A copy of this book was given to me by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Johnson is concerned that the fact Jesus is alive and well today is not making a difference in Christians' lives. We have gradually come to the place where we think any action that need be taken is up to us. Johnson looks at thirteen conversations Jesus had and how they show an open heaven. He helps us see what those stories teach us about ourselves and how they move us to live on a different plane.

From the discussion with Nathanael we see we need to become aware of a reality to which we had been blind. From His talk with His mother we learn we must trust Jesus to do what is needed at the right time (water to wine). The discussion with Nicodemus calls us to be open to the Spirit working in ways unexpected because of our preconceived ideas. Johnson gives us other insights from the woman at the well, the invalid beside the pool, the crowd, Jesus' brothers, the man born blind, Martha, His disciples, Pilate, and Peter.

I was really impressed with the insights from Jesus' interaction with Martha. It is so hard for us to understand God's timing. We want God to follow our schedule. Even in the midst of a puzzling situation God gives reassurance of future hope, asking us to trust in Him.

This book is a good one for people who like reading sermons for devotions as that seems to be the style of the content. It would also be a good resource for a pastor wanting to do a sermon series on the gospel of John. There are questions at the end of each chapter so the book could also be used for a group study.

Food for thought: “Jesus broke through the sealed dome and entered into this self-reliant world to declare it is not up to us.” (23)

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book! Relevant and revealing to individuals and really good for a small group discussion. Prof Johnson unlocks the Gospel of John in an interesting way that is fun, focused and food for the soul. Dr. Johnson, always theologically robust, brings the reader into a deeper understanding of the context of the Gospel when written and relevant for today.