In light of recent contributions to our understanding of fourth century developments in the area of theological and trinitarian reflection by Lewis Ayres and John Behr, this paper seeks to develop and apply a set of nine criteria as a litmus test for pro-Nicene theological practices in the writings of John Chrysostom. With initial historical background in a number of elements pertaining to Chrysostom, namely social setting, rhetorical training, patristic exegetical practices, and the fourth century debates, the thesis then proceeds to identify these nine criteria which may be used as a basis for a close reading of Chrysostom. These nine criteria are then applied to Chrysostom’s Homilies on John, a series of sermons traditionally regarded as dominated by polemical and theological concerns. The presence of the majority of criteria and those of greatest significance establishes the case that Chrysostom be considered pro-Nicene in his theological approach as well as his doctrinal conclusions, and advances our understanding of the way theology and the reading of scripture mutually inform one another in this period and specifically within Chrysostom’s treatment of the Fourth Gospel.