John (apostle)

Technical Profile

Name Meaning: From Hebrew Yôḥānān (“Yahweh is gracious”), reflected in the Greek form Iōannēs
Period/Era: Second Temple Period; Apostolic Age (Early Church)
Main References: Matthew 4; Mark 1; Luke 5; John 13–21; Acts 1–4; Galatians 2
Key Connections: Son of Zebedee; brother of James; part of Jesus’ inner circle with Peter and James; associated with Peter in early Jerusalem ministry

Who was John (apostle)?

John was a Galilean disciple called by Jesus from a fishing livelihood (Mark 1:19–20).
He was one of the Twelve and belonged to a smaller circle present at pivotal moments (Mark 5:37; 9:2; 14:33).
In Acts he appears as a leading witness and spokesperson with Peter in Jerusalem (Acts 3–4).

Key Events & Achievements

Call to discipleship: Left his work with Zebedee to follow Jesus as one of the Twelve (Mark 1:19–20).
Witness of key moments: Present at the raising of Jairus’s daughter, the Transfiguration, and Gethsemane (Mark 5:37; 9:2; 14:33).
Early Jerusalem leadership: Recognized as a “pillar” and active in public testimony and teaching (Acts 4:13; Galatians 2:9).

Life Lesson & Legacy

John’s life highlights steadfast participation in Jesus’ mission and the public witness of the early church amid opposition.

Key Verse

"So they called them and charged them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus." — Acts 4:18, ESV

Quizzes

Answer the questions below. When you choose an option, you will see the result and an explanation.

1. What was John doing when Jesus called him to follow?

2. In Acts, with whom does John appear as a leading witness and spokesperson in Jerusalem?