The Twelve
John
The Beloved Disciple, Apostle of Love
Description
The son of Zebedee, John reclined on Christ's breast at the Last Supper, stood at the cross, received Mary into his care, and outlived all other apostles. His Gospel, epistles, and the Revelation present Christ's deity, emphasize love, and unveil prophetic mysteries.Early church fathers unanimously identify John as the 'disciple whom Jesus loved'—not suggesting favoritism but intimate communion. Banished to Patmos under Domitian, he received the Revelation. Tradition holds he ministered in Ephesus until extreme old age, continually repeating 'Little children, love one another.'
Key Verses
Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved.
Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee?