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Document Details :

Title: The Return of John to Jesus Research
Author(s): VAN BELLE, Gilbert
Journal: Louvain Studies
Volume: 32    Issue: 1-2   Date: 2007   
Pages: 23-48
DOI: 10.2143/LS.32.1.2032350

Abstract :
This article questions whether the Fourth Gospel, critically evaluated, can be considered in investigating the historical Jesus. After providing a review of recent (I) and 19th century research (II) on the historical reliability of the Fourth Gospel, the question of literary unity and the dependence of the John on the Synoptics is proposed (III). According to the present author, the language and style of the Fourth Gospel is so homogenous and the craftsmanship of the evangelist is so creative that it is impossible to distinguish alternative sources or traditions apart from the Synoptics. The possibility of historical tradition in the Fourth Gospel can neither be denied nor proved.

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