JOHN 

-THE TWELVE APOSTLES

He was the Son of Thunder who became known as the Apostle of love. It was to this disciple that Jesus entrusted the care of his mother (Jn.19:26,27). He was the first disciple to visit the tomb on Easter morning. According to Eusebius, John was of the priestly family. This could possibly identify John with the unknown disciple accompanying Peter during the trials who knew the high priest (Jn. 18:15). Anyone who reads John's Apocalypse must conclude that he had more than the usual knowledge of temple ritual. For other information about John's family, see above.

Ministry: In Acts, he is closely associated with Peter, and for some time was a leader in the church in Jerusalem. Later, he and Peter laid hands on the Samaritans (whom he wanted to destroy as a disciple!). When John left Jerusalem is unknown, but he probably did not leave until Mary's death. There are many legends and traditions about John. Most of these put him in Asia Minor ministering at Ephesus where he died of old age. He wrote the sublime gospel which bears his name as well as 3 epistles. He wrote the book of Revelation while banished to the Isle of Patmos. There is more and more evidence he wrote all five of these books before A.D. 70!