Topical Encyclopedia John, the son of Zebedee and brother of James, is one of the most prominent figures among the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. Known for his close relationship with Jesus, John is often referred to as "the disciple whom Jesus loved" (John 13:23). This intimate association is evident throughout the New Testament, where John is depicted as a key witness to the life, ministry, and resurrection of Jesus.Background and Calling John was a fisherman by trade, working alongside his brother James and their father Zebedee on the Sea of Galilee. The Gospel of Mark records that Jesus called John and James while they were mending their nets, and they immediately left their father and followed Him (Mark 1:19-20). This immediate response highlights John's readiness to commit to Jesus' mission. The Inner Circle John, along with Peter and James, formed the inner circle of Jesus' disciples. This trio was present at significant events, such as the Transfiguration (Mark 9:2-3), the raising of Jairus' daughter (Mark 5:37), and Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mark 14:33). These experiences provided John with a unique insight into the divine nature and mission of Jesus. The Beloved Disciple John's special relationship with Jesus is most clearly seen in the Gospel of John, where he is referred to as "the disciple whom Jesus loved." This designation underscores the deep personal bond between John and Jesus. At the Last Supper, John is depicted as reclining next to Jesus, a position of honor and closeness (John 13:23). Furthermore, John was entrusted with the care of Jesus' mother, Mary, at the crucifixion, indicating a profound level of trust and affection (John 19:26-27). Witness to the Resurrection John was among the first to witness the empty tomb following Jesus' resurrection. Along with Peter, he ran to the tomb after Mary Magdalene reported it was empty. John arrived first and, upon entering, "saw and believed" (John 20:8). This moment marks a pivotal point in John's faith journey, as he becomes a witness to the risen Christ. Author of New Testament Writings Traditionally, John is credited with the authorship of the Gospel of John, three epistles (1 John, 2 John, 3 John), and the Book of Revelation. The Gospel of John provides a unique theological perspective on Jesus' life and ministry, emphasizing His divine nature and the concept of eternal life through belief in Him. The epistles of John focus on themes of love, truth, and fellowship with God, while Revelation offers a prophetic vision of the end times and the ultimate victory of Christ. Legacy and Influence John's influence extends beyond his writings. As a leader in the early church, he played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity. According to early church tradition, John spent his later years in Ephesus, where he continued to teach and guide the Christian community. His legacy is one of deep spiritual insight, unwavering faith, and a profound understanding of the love of Christ. John's intimate association with Jesus and his contributions to the New Testament make him a central figure in Christian theology and history. His life and writings continue to inspire believers to seek a closer relationship with Christ and to live out the principles of love and truth. Nave's Topical Index John 13:23-26Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved. Nave's Topical Index John 21:20 Library A Faithful Witness The Conversion of Apollos, his Character, and the Ministry of Paul ... Modern Examples of Prayer (Continued) Chapter iv. Of the Nature of Regeneration, and Particularly of the Change it ... Manner of Covenanting. Eternal Life. Carey as an Educator --The First Christian College in the East Covenanting Provided for in the Everlasting Covenant. The General Conference of 1836 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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