John consistently identifies himself as “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” highlighting his deep personal experience of Christ’s love. Five times in the book John (John 13:23; 19:26; 20:2; 21:7, 20). This affirmation isn’t about exclusivity but underscores the depth and intimacy he shares with Jesus. By emphasising this love, John reveals a fundamental truth: his primary identity and motivation derive from being deeply loved by Jesus, the Son of God.
John’s Gospel serves as a powerful testament to the transformative nature of Christ’s love. It goes beyond mere historical narrative, offering a theological reflection on how Jesus’s love deeply impacts lives through acts of compassion, sacrificial love, and unmatched selflessness.
John clarifies that our ability to love God originates from God’s initial love for us ( 1 John 4:19). Often, we strive in our own strength to demonstrate love for God, forgetting that our efforts fall short. Scripture teaches that all our righteous deeds are like filthy rags; it is through God’s commendable love, demonstrated even when we were dead in our sins, that we find true gratitude (Rom 5:8).
John boldly declares, ‘My primary identity is not in my name but in being loved by Jesus, the Son of God.’ His motivation for writing his gospel flows from this overwhelming encounter with Christ’s love. He passionately desires for others to experience this life-changing love, shaping his entire life and ministry. Like Paul, whose life was transformed by Christ’s love, John’s service is a response to this love, guiding his decisions, preaching, and relationships in the early Christian community.
Peter’s relationship with Jesus is characterised by moments of deep faith as well as human failure, such as walking on water and denying Jesus. Peter’s love for Jesus is passionate and impulsive; he boldly professes his loyalty, even declaring his readiness to die for him. However, Peter learns that his love for Christ can only deepen upon recognising Christ’s overwhelming love for him.
Peter experiences Jesus’s love and forgiveness firsthand, notably after denying him three times. Jesus’s restoration of Peter, asking him three times, “Do you love me?” underscores Christ’s deep care and concern despite Peter’s shortcomings. This encounter profoundly deepens Peter’s appreciation for Jesus’s love and grace, reinforcing his commitment to faithfully follow and serve Him.
In summary, both John and Peter exemplify that our love for Christ can only grow as we grasp more fully the depth of His love for us. It is in receiving and responding to His love that our own love for Him becomes more profound and steadfast.
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk