John, son of Zebedee, was a Galilean fisherman called by Jesus among his early disciples, along with his brother James and Peter.
Formed an inner circle with Jesus, present at key events:
House of Peter after Jesus preached in Capernaum.
The raising of Jairus' daughter (Mark 5:37, Luke 8:51).
Transfiguration of Jesus (Matt 17:1, Mark 9:2, Luke 9:28).
Prayer in the garden of Gethsemane (Mark 14:33).
Only the inner circle sought clarification on prophecy of temple destruction (Mark 13:3).
Tasked with preparations for the Last Supper (Luke 22:8).
Characteristics and Zeal
Known as Boenerges, "Sons of Thunder," due to their passionate nature (Mark 3:17).
Displayed zeal and ambition by:
Attempting to silence a rival exorcist (Mark 9:38-41, Luke 9:49-50).
Requesting thrones beside Jesus in glory (Mark 10:37); rebuked by Jesus and fellow disciples.
Suggesting calling down fire on Samaritans (Luke 9:54); rebuked by Jesus.
Role after Jesus' Resurrection
Acts of the Apostles highlights John's leadership post-resurrection:
Performed miracles and faced imprisonment with Peter (Acts 3:1-4, Acts 4:1-3).
Defended the faithful before the Sanhedrin (Acts 4:7-12, Acts 4:19).
Confirmed the Samaritans' acceptance of the Gospel (Acts 8:14).
Described as a pillar of the Jerusalem community with Peter and James (Gal 2:9).
John and the Fourth Gospel
Traditions linked John to the Fourth Gospel and its "beloved disciple" (John 13:23, John 19:26, John 20:2, John 21:7, John 21:20-23).
This anonymous disciple was an ideal witness—at Jesus' crucifixion, adopted as a brother by Jesus, and a resurrection witness.
Some early and modern scholars differentiate John the Apostle from the author of the Fourth Gospel and Revelation, attributing some Johannine works to a different "elder John."
Additional Traditions and Legacy
Irenaeus reported John's long residence in Ephesus and interactions with heretic Cerinthus.
Clement of Alexandria and Tertullian recounted stories of John's miraculous and spiritual encounters.
The "Acts of John" details miracles and spiritual episodes in Ephesus.
Conclusion
Despite the evolving legends, John remains a pivotal figure in the early Jesus movement.