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Portrait of JohnPortrait · John

Gospels · New Testament

John

Apostle and Witness of Jesus

Name meaning
The LORD is gracious
Name origin
Hebrew: יוֹחָנָן (Yochanan), “the LORD is gracious”

Quick facts

Occupation
  • Fisherman
  • Apostle
  • Witness
Birthplace
Galilee
Modern-day location
Galilee, in present-day northern Israel; the town is not specified.
Family
  • Son of Zebedee and Salome (traditionally)
  • Brother of James
  • One of the Twelve
First mention
Matthew 4:21-22
Last mention
Revelation 1:1-2 (traditional attribution)
Key artifacts
  • Fishing net
  • Scroll
  • Island of Patmos

Key verses

  • “Now there was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved.”

    John 13:23

  • “Woman, behold thy son!”

    John 19:26

  • “We love him, because he first loved us.”

    1 John 4:19

Biography

Early Life

John was a Galilean fisherman and brother of James. Jesus called both brothers while they were mending nets.

Defining Biblical Moments

John became one of the Twelve and is shown near Jesus at key moments, including the transfiguration and crucifixion. The Gospel and letters bearing his name emphasize love, testimony, and life in Christ.

Strengths

John is remembered for close discipleship, enduring witness, and pastoral concern for communities.

Weaknesses & Lessons

Early tradition associates John with a long life of witness; precise later biographical details are uncertain.

Life Lessons for Today

Early tradition associates John with a long life of witness; precise later biographical details are uncertain.

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John appears in The Life of Jesus & The Early Church, alongside more profiles like this one.

Page #19 in The Life of Jesus & The Early Church

The Life of Jesus & The Early Church front cover

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