The Life of John the Apostle
The Life of John the Apostle A detailed look at the man through whom God gave us the Gospel of John, the Epistles, and the Revelation of Jesus Christ. 1. Early Life and Calling John was born around 6 AD in Bethsaida, a fishing village on the Sea of Galilee. He was the son of Zebedee and Salome, and the younger brother of James. Together they worked as fishermen and were partners with Peter and Andrew. Their family business was stable and respected, suggesting they were not poor but hardworking and established. Jesus called John while he was mending nets. Without hesitation, he left the boat, the nets, and the family business to follow the Messiah. This immediate obedience reveals the depth of his devotion from the very beginning. 2. A “Son of Thunder” Transformed Jesus gave John and his brother James the nickname “Boanerges,” meaning “sons of thunder.” This tells us John was originally fiery, bold, and intense. He once wanted to call down fire on a Samaritan vill...