Topical Encyclopedia John, son of Zebedee and brother of James, stands as one of the most prominent figures in the New Testament. Known as "the disciple whom Jesus loved" (John 13:23), John was part of Jesus' inner circle, alongside Peter and James. His contributions to the early Christian church and his writings have left an indelible mark on the faith.Early Life and Calling John was a fisherman by trade, working alongside his brother James and their father Zebedee on the Sea of Galilee. He was called by Jesus to be a "fisher of men" (Matthew 4:19), leaving his nets to follow Christ. This calling marked the beginning of his journey as a disciple and later as an apostle. Role Among the Apostles John's close relationship with Jesus is evident throughout the Gospels. He was present at key moments, such as the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-2) and the Garden of Gethsemane (Mark 14:33). His proximity to Jesus during these pivotal events underscores his role as a trusted confidant and leader among the apostles. Writings and Theological Contributions John's contributions to the New Testament are substantial. He is traditionally credited with the authorship of the Gospel of John, three epistles (1 John, 2 John, 3 John), and the Book of Revelation. His writings emphasize the divinity of Christ, the importance of love, and the reality of eternal life. In the Gospel of John, he presents Jesus as the incarnate Word of God, stating, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). This profound theological insight has been foundational for Christian doctrine. A Pillar of the Early Church John's influence extended beyond his writings. He was a key figure in the early church, often referred to as a "pillar" alongside Peter and James (Galatians 2:9). His leadership helped shape the early Christian community, guiding it through times of persecution and theological development. Exile and Revelation According to tradition, John spent his later years in Ephesus, where he continued to teach and lead. During the reign of Emperor Domitian, he was exiled to the island of Patmos, where he received the visions recorded in the Book of Revelation. This apocalyptic text offers hope and encouragement to believers, affirming the ultimate victory of Christ over evil. Legacy and Influence John's legacy is one of love, truth, and steadfast faith. His emphasis on love as the defining characteristic of a Christian life is encapsulated in his exhortation, "Beloved, let us love one another, for love comes from God" (1 John 4:7). His writings continue to inspire and challenge believers to live out their faith with integrity and devotion. In summary, John the Apostle remains a towering figure in the history of Christianity. His close relationship with Jesus, his theological insights, and his leadership in the early church have solidified his role as a pillar of the Ekklesia, the Body of Christ. His life and works continue to be a source of inspiration and guidance for Christians around the world. Nave's Topical Index Galatians 2:9And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given to me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go to the heathen, and they to the circumcision. Nave's Topical Index Library Concerning the Ministry. Resources Who was John the Baptist in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgSummary of the Gospel of John - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org What does John 3:16 mean? | GotQuestions.org John: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics John: A Relative of Annas the High Priest John: Affected Probably by the Doctrines of the Stoics John: Herod Antipas Falsely Supposes Jesus to Be John: His Influence Upon the Public Mind John: His Ministry not Attested by Miracles John: Reproves Herod Antipas on Account of his Incest; Herod Imprisons Him, and Beheads Him John: Sends Two Disciples to Jesus John: Teaches his Disciples to Fast John: Teaches his Disciples to Pray John: Testifies to the Messiahship of Jesus John: The Apostle is Intrusted With the Care of Mary, Mother of Jesus John: The Apostle is Present With Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane John: The Apostle: A Pillar of the Ekklesia (Body of Christ) John: The Apostle: Civil Ambitions of John: The Apostle: Imprisoned by the Rulers of the Jews John: The Apostle: Intimately Associated With Jesus John: The Apostle: Intolerance of John: The Apostle: Lives in Jerusalem John: The Apostle: Prepares the Passover Meal John: The Apostle: Present at the Crucifixion John: The Apostle: Present at the Gravesite of Jesus John: The Apostle: Present at the Trial of Jesus Which Took Place in Front of the High Priest John: The Apostle: Present when Jesus Revealed Himself at the Lake Galilee John: The Apostle: Present With Peter in the Temple Courtyard John: The Apostle: Prophecy Concerning John: The Apostle: Sent by the Jerusalem Congregation With the Commission to Samaria John: The Apostle: The Epistles of John John: The Apostle: The healing of Peter's mother-in-law John: The Apostle: The raising of the daughter of Jairus John: The Apostle: The transfiguration John: The Apostle: The two catches of fish John: The Apostle: Writes his Apocalyptic Vision from Patmos Island John: The Baptist: Prophecies Concerning John: The Testimony of Jesus Concerning (See Below, Jesus Discourses Upon) Related Terms |
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