As the inaugural volume in the Pillar New Testament Commentary series, D.A. Carson's The Gospel According to John set the tone for what would become of this now widely respected series. Carson's primary focus is on the flow of the text rather than an overly burdensome concentration on technical issues. However, where necessary those elements are brought in and thoroughly reviewed and the issues adjudicated with precision and great competency.
In doing so, Carson provides a basic map of contemporary Johannine scholarship, but also focuses on the theological contributions of the Gospel, especially it's evangelistic themes. A well-rounded and sober introduction dealing with issues such as authorship, authenticity, and other matters makes this an ideal volume on John's gospel.