Step back and look at the big picture.

"To study John's gospel in detail for the first time is like becoming heir to an ancient, beautiful tapestry. Its artistry astounds. And the closer we examine it, the more we are awed by mysteries hidden from the casual observer. To understand the part we must stand back and comprehend the whole. And when we investigate its background and history, its value and uniqueness—even its message—acquire an entirely new depth" (Gary M. Burge, "Interpreting the Gospel of John," in Interpreting the New Testament: Essays on Methods and Issues, ed. by Black and Dockery [Broadman & Holman], 383).