John (jan 1, 33 – jan 1, 100)

Description:

Names and Titles

-Also known as John the Apostle, John the Evangelist, and John of Patmos.
-Often referred to as "the disciple whom Jesus loved" (John 13:23).

Family and Background

-Son of Zebedee and Salome.
-Brother of James the Greater.
-Worked as a fisherman with his brother James and father Zebedee.

Calling by Jesus

-Called to be a disciple while mending nets with his brother James and father Zebedee (Matthew 4:21-22).
-Immediately left his fishing work to follow Jesus.

Role Among the Apostles

-Part of Jesus' inner circle, along with Peter and James the Greater.
-Present at significant events such as the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-9), the raising of Jairus's daughter (Mark 5:37-43), and Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-46).
-Entrusted by Jesus to care for His mother, Mary, at the crucifixion (John 19:26-27).

Significant Events

-Witnessed many miracles and the teachings of Jesus.
-Ran with Peter to the empty tomb on the morning of Jesus' resurrection (John 20:2-8).
-Present at Jesus' post-resurrection appearances.

Writings

-Traditionally credited as the author of the Gospel of John, three epistles (1 John, 2 John, and 3 John), and the Book of Revelation.
-The Gospel of John emphasizes the divinity of Christ and contains unique content not found in the Synoptic Gospels.
-The Book of Revelation contains apocalyptic visions and prophecies.

Ministry and Missionary Work

-Played a key role in the early Christian community.
-Traditionally believed to have lived in Ephesus, where he provided leadership and guidance.
Known for his emphasis on love, truth, and unity among believers.

Exile and Later Life

-Exiled to the island of Patmos under Roman Emperor Domitian, where he wrote the Book of Revelation (Revelation 1:9).
-According to tradition, later returned to Ephesus and continued his ministry until his death.
Believed to have died of natural causes, making him the only apostle not martyred.

Legacy

-Known as the "Apostle of Love" due to his teachings on love and his deep relationship with Jesus.
-Revered for his contributions to Christian theology and literature.
-Patron saint of theologians, writers, and the Asia Minor region.

Veneration

-Recognized as a saint in multiple Christian traditions, including Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Anglican, and Lutheran churches.
-Feast days are observed on December 27 in the Western Church and May 8 and September 26 in the Eastern Orthodox Church.
-Often depicted in Christian art with an eagle (symbolizing the high-soaring theology of his Gospel), a book or scroll, and sometimes a chalice with a serpent (referencing a legend of surviving poisoning).

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