Revelator
John’s Life: John, often referred to as the “beloved disciple,” was born in the fishing town of Bethsaida and worked as a fisherman alongside his father Zebedee and his brother James. The pivotal moment in John’s life occurred when he encountered Jesus by the Sea of Galilee. It was here that Jesus called him, along with his brother James to be His disciples. Both men immediately left their fishing nets and followed Him. As one of the twelve apostles, John had the privilege of walking closely with Jesus throughout His earthly ministry. He witnessed remarkable events, such as the transfiguration, the raising of Jairus’ daughter, and the agony in the Garden of Gethsemane. John’s close relationship with Jesus earned him a place of honor as one of the inner circle disciples, alongside Peter and James. The Gospel of John provides clear insights into the life, teachings, and the miracles of Jesus. John’s Gospel emphasizes the divinity of Christ and Jesus as the incarnate Word, the Light of the world, and the source of eternal life. As proof, John 3:16 is considered as one of the most profound and direct scriptures of salvation to be read in the Bible. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” During Jesus’ crucifixion, John stood faithfully by His side along with Jesus’ mother, Mary. Jesus, in His dying moments, entrusted the care of His mother to John. John was also one of the first people to check the empty tomb after the report of the women. In the years following Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, John became an influential figure within the early Christian community. He played a vital role in spreading the Gospel and nurturing the faith of believers. He was a leader of the church of Ephesus and suffered great hardships to preach the Good News. He was thrown into a cauldron of boiling oil and survived. He was also exiled to the Isle of Patmos where God revealed to him what was to come at the end of days. Despite all the persecution and attempts on his life John was the only one of the twelve Apostles who did not suffer martyrdom, but instead died of old age in Ephesus. John was always loyal and God used him mightily.
Gospel: The Gospel of John holds a unique and significant place in the Bible, making it an ideal starting point for new believers. Its clarity, conciseness, poetic language, and divine revelation make it a powerful testament to the identity of Jesus Christ. From the very first words of the Gospel, we are transported to the beginning of all things, affirming the divine nature of Jesus. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him, nothing came into being that has come into being. In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it” — John 1:1–5. These opening words and the subsequent prologue (John 1:1–18) unequivocally dispel any notion that Jesus was merely a good moral philosopher or profound teacher. The Gospel of John boldly declares that Jesus is the Son of God, the divine Light shining in the darkness. Those who receive Him are given the right to become children of God. John further testifies, “There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God” — John 1:9–13. The Word, which is Jesus, became flesh and dwelt among us, revealing His glory as the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. Through Jesus, we have received grace upon grace, surpassing the law given through Moses. Jesus is the perfect revelation of God, explaining the very nature of the Father, whom no one has seen. The Gospel of John leaves no room for ambiguity. To receive Jesus, one must believe in Him as the true Son of God. There is no middle ground or compromise. Salvation is not achieved through works, knowledge, or moral posturing. The only way to eternal life is to believe in Jesus, repent of your sins, and accept the Holy Spirit. “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.’” — John 14:6. The Gospel of John reveals the divine nature, purpose, and redemptive work of Christ, making it an essential starting point for all Christians. If you have lacked to read the Bible in a while and would like to start again. Start with the Gospel of John and your heart will immediately be full.
Revelation: In contrast to the Gospel of John, which presents the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, the Book of Revelation, given to John on the Isle of Patmos, is known for its highly symbolic and apocalyptic nature. This intricate book can be challenging to comprehend fully due to its vivid imagery, complex symbolism, and prophetic content. However, it is essential to recognize that the Book of Revelation carries divine inspiration and is the direct Word of God. As believers, we should not shy away from reading and studying this powerful prophetic work. The Book of Revelation provides a glimpse into future events, unveiling the ultimate victory of God over Satan, the return of Jesus Christ, and the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom. It highlights the final judgment, and the ultimate fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. For us, the Book of Revelation has personally meant so much more after visiting the Isle of Patmos for ourselves. It has shown us another side of the story. Meaning, during that era, when Christians were imprisoned, their survival was rare. Many would have written off John, assuming that his exile on a remote island marked the end of his active involvement in the church and his ministry. However, God had not finished using John yet. Despite his exile and advanced age, God chose him to be the vessel through which the final triumph of Christ and the church would be documented in the Book of Revelation. By selecting John, an exiled elderly man, as the author of the Book of Revelation, God emphasizes His power to use anyone, regardless of their physical limitations or dire situation. It serves as a powerful reminder that God’s plans and purposes surpass human understanding, and His work can extend far beyond our perceived limitations. If you’ve ever felt that the years have passed you by or that God can no longer use you, then please reconsider. Don’t underestimate the Lord’s ability to swoop in and alter everything in an instant. The example of John should inspire us all to be prepared, for God may be calling upon you sooner than you think. It’s easy to succumb to feelings of inadequacy or doubt, particularly when we consider our age or the challenges we face. However, God’s plans are not bound by time or circumstances. He can use anyone, at any stage of life, to accomplish His purpose. No matter how long you may have felt sidelined or forgotten, take heart in knowing that God has a unique plan for your life. Your past experiences, trials, and even perceived limitations can be the very tools God will use to shape you for His divine purposes. Don’t allow discouragement to overshadow the Spirit that lives within you. Cultivate a heart that is open to God’s leading and prepare yourself to respond when God calls upon you, for His timing is often unexpected and swift. Remember, it is never too late to be used by God in extraordinary ways.
In Him,
Tim and Will