John

Here you will find the main highlights of John’s life.

John was the son of Zebedee and Salome and the brother of James, another apostle. He worked as a fisherman alongside his father and brother on the Sea of Galilee. He was part of a group closely connected to Jesus.

In Matthew 4:21–22, we read how John, together with his brother James, was called by Jesus while they were mending their nets. Jesus said to them, “Follow me,” and they immediately left their boat and father to follow Him.

Jesus gave John and his brother James the nicknames “Boanerges,” which means “sons of thunder” (Mark 3:17). This likely refers to their passionate and sometimes impulsive nature.

John is often described as the disciple closest to Jesus. At the Last Supper, he sat beside Jesus and is repeatedly referred to as “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (John 13:23).

• The transfiguration: John was one of three disciples who witnessed the transfiguration of Jesus on the mountaintop (Matthew 17:1–9). The word “transfiguration” refers to a dramatic change in appearance. In this passage, Jesus' face shone like the sun and His clothes became as white as light, revealing a glimpse of His heavenly glory.

• Presence at the cross: John was the only disciple present at the crucifixion of Jesus, where Jesus entrusted him with the care of His mother Mary (John 19:26–27).

• Author of Biblical books: John is traditionally credited with writing the Gospel of John, the three letters (1, 2, and 3 John), and the book of Revelation.

After Jesus' resurrection, John played a significant role in the early church. He worked closely with Peter and witnessed several miracles. According to tradition, John spent the final years of his life in Ephesus and on the island of Patmos, where he wrote the book of Revelation.

John is known as the “apostle of love” due to his strong emphasis on love in his writings. He highlighted God’s love for humanity and the love that believers should have for one another. His work has had a lasting impact on Christianity.