Johannine Ethics: An Exegetical-Theological Summary and a ‘Desiderative’ Extension of Mimesis

If we consider the Johannine literature to have primarily espoused an exemplary (rather than imperatival) ethical paradigm, our understanding of its moral teaching becomes much richer. The Gospel John does not provide a grammar by conveying set commands or prohibitions, but through conformity example (Jesus Christ himself). More specifically, this paper initially approaches issue surveying uses imperative in John, appearances ὀφείλειν and καθώς, related themes, descriptions two commandments, statements 13:14–15. essay then focuses particularly upon recent work Cornelis Bennema on imitative “mimetic” ethics John. has emphasized “cognitive mimesis” “performative ethics, engendered enabled Paraclete. Finally, exposition 8 other relevant texts, contributes conversation adding “desiderative Bennema’s proposed framework. As one’s identity (who I am) is transformed, desiderative inclinations (what desire) are renewed, resulting changed behavior (how act).