John’s Unique Distinction Among the Twelve Apostles

In Mark 3:13–19, we read about the appointment of the twelve apostles:

“Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons. These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means ‘sons of thunder’), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.”

Among these twelve, only three are traditionally credited with contributing to the New Testament writings:

• Matthew: Also known as Levi, he was a tax collector before following Jesus. His Gospel is the first book of the New Testament and emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, presenting Him as the long-awaited Messiah and King of the Jews.
• Peter: Originally named Simon, he was a fisherman and one of Jesus’ closest disciples. His epistles, 1 Peter and 2 Peter, encourage believers to remain steadfast in faith amid suffering and to live holy lives. Peter’s writings are foundational in establishing early Christian doctrine and practice.
• John: The brother of James and often referred to as “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (John 13:23), John played a significant role in early Christianity. His Gospel is distinct from the Synoptic Gospels, focusing on the divinity of Jesus. His three epistles—1 John, 2 John, and 3 John—center on themes of love, truth, and fellowship with God. Additionally, the Book of Revelation offers a prophetic vision of the end times.

Others, like James, the brother of Jesus (not one of the Twelve), were prominent leaders and contributed writings closely tied to apostolic teaching.

John’s unique contributions to the New Testament, his close personal relationship with Jesus, and his lasting influence on the early church distinguish him from the other apostles. His profound theological insights, emphasis on love, and the sheer volume of his writings have left an indelible mark on Christian theology and practice.

John is often referred to as “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (John 13:23), indicating a particularly close relationship with Jesus. At the crucifixion, Jesus entrusted the care of His mother, Mary, to John (John 19:26–27), further highlighting this special bond. He is often called the “Apostle of Love” because of his strong emphasis on love as a fundamental attribute of God and a defining characteristic of Christians. In 1 John 4:7–8, he writes:

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God… Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”

His writings urge believers to love not just in words but in actions and truth. John’s writing style is markedly different from that of Peter or Matthew. His works are more reflective and theological, focusing on the spiritual and eternal aspects of Jesus’ ministry rather than just historical events. He delves into deep theological themes such as the nature of Christ as the Word (Logos), the concept of eternal life, and the role of the Holy Spirit.

John’s life exemplifies a deep commitment to understanding and conveying the spiritual truths of the faith, making him a standout figure among the apostles. His contributions continue to inspire and guide Christians worldwide, emphasizing the importance of love, faith, and a profound connection with God.

Possibly the most well know passage is John 3:16, and the subsequent verses 17-21 which guide us to this day in the way we treat ALL others:

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but so that the world might be saved through Him. The one who believes in Him is not judged; the one who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. And this is the judgment, that the Light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the Light; for their deeds were evil. For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light, so that his deeds will not be exposed. But the one who practices the truth comes to the Light, so that his deeds will be revealed as having been performed in God.”