Jesus's Opening Week

This book offers a close reading of John 1:1--2:11, but it moves beyond explaining the content of the text. Bringing the whole Bible to bear on the words of John and of Jesus, this book seeks to introduce or to reintroduce people who have known disappointment, failure, and loss to the One who came to provide true life and light. Help is also offered here for those wanting to minister the gospel of Christ to a hurting world. In Jesus Christ, who suffered and died for us on the cross, we are drawn close to the God of loving mercy, filled with his strength, and equipped to support and serve one another in a world desperate for peace and purpose. The question Jesus asked his first two disciples, he asks each of us too: ""What are you looking for?"" Everything worth seeking is to be found in him.


""Jesus's Opening Week is a clever title and book I wish I had thought to write! Combining biblical knowledge, life experience, and a love for John's Gospel, Clendenen takes us on a journey with Jesus covering the first seven days of his public ministry.""
--David L. Allen, Dean, School of Preaching, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

"". . . an enjoyable and worthwhile manuscript. It is up to date, abreast of the literature, especially commentaries and dictionary articles, has wonderful illustrations from every era of readers living today, and a few from older times.""
--Craig L. Blomberg, Professor of New Testament, Denver Seminary

""Although countless books have been written on the Gospel of John, Jesus's Opening Week by Ray Clendenen is unique. Written for Christians or non-Christians alike, this little work on the first week of Jesus's public deeds and words is chock-full of interesting insights and practical reflections for where the rubber hits the road. I highly commend it for both those completely new to the topic and scholars who have devoted a lifetime of study to these things.""
--Peter J. Gentry , Professor of Old Testament, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

""I was very impressed by the depth of research! I think the book is a great combination of in-depth study, conversational tone, helpful illustrations from everyday life, and application. I think it is a very good read.""
--Thomas R. Schreiner, Professor of New Testament, and Associate Dean, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

""[This book] combines an engaging writing style, in-depth yet accessible exposition, meaningful personal sharing, and helpful spiritual encouragement for believers. I especially appreciated the frequent enriching insights from the OT.""
--Timothy J. Wiarda, Professor of New Testament, Gateway Seminary


E. Ray Clendenen is senior editor of Bibles and reference books for Lifeway Christian Resources in Nashville. A former professor of Hebrew and Old Testament, he is general editor of the New American Commentary and author of the volume on Malachi. Besides editing several other Bible reference works, he is the author of over fifty book chapters and articles on the Bible, theology, and Bible translation. He is also a leader in Celebrate Recovery ministry.