The Beloved Disciple

John is traditionally identified as the “beloved disciple” in the Gospel of John. Although this is uncertain, the two are both in Jesus’ closest circle and are companions of Peter.

John is never explicitly named in the Gospel of John. He is indirectly mentioned in John 21:2, which says that “the sons of Zebedee” were together with Peter and some of the other disciples at the lake of Tiberias (i.e., the Sea of Galilee). However, one unnamed disciple is presented as closest to Jesus:

• He leans on Jesus’ chest at the Last Supper (John 13:23)

• He acts as an intermediary between Peter and Jesus (John 13:24–25)

• He is entrusted with the care of Jesus’ mother (John 19:26–27)

• He reaches the empty tomb before any other disciple (John 20:4)

• He is the first to believe in the resurrection (John 20:8)

• He recognizes the risen Lord and identifies him for Peter (John 21:7)

He is called “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (e.g., in John 21:20). This beloved disciple is Peter’s companion. He is sometimes called “the other disciple” (John 18:15; 20:2).

Other suggestions for the identity of the beloved disciple include Lazarus, Thomas, John Mark, or Matthias. The beloved disciple is portrayed both as an individual and as a symbolic figure. According to John 21:24, the beloved disciple is identified as the author of the Gospel of John (see the events leading up to John 21:24 in John 21:20–23).