The synoptic Gospels seem to have been the sifted and perfected record of the preaching of the apostles. They told the story over and over again as they preached. It was written at various times by several different people as we learn from Luke. This statement of facts was the great need of the early church, till the facts became a part of the hearts, memories and lives of the early Christians.

In time there came another need, both among the Jews and those permeated with Greek learning. Questions arose, errors would be promulgated, difficulties would arise. For instance, the Jews, as well as Christians, were very tenacious of the unity of God, but the question immediately arose how it was possible for Jesus to be the divine Son of God, and yet God be but one.

John states the fact so that all can see the truth. He proclaims the same truths taught by the other Gospels, but in different language for a different people. He who lived nearest the heart of Jesus recalls many of His teachings not reported by the others. John does not at this late day write a new Gospel, or new words of Jesus, but writes down what he had been preaching for more than half a century. It was this fact that made the wonderful perfection of the style and language of this Gospel, as well as its accuracy.

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