The teachings of Jesus Christ have impacted the world for over 2,000 years. Among his many followers, there were three disciples who were closest to him – Peter, James, and John.
These three men were present at some of the most significant moments in Jesus’ life and ministry. Let’s take a deeper look at who they were and their relationship with Jesus.
Peter
Peter was known as Simon before he met Jesus. He was a fisherman from Bethsaida and was married (Matthew 8:14).
Peter was one of the first disciples called by Jesus (Matthew 4:18-20). He was also present at several significant moments in Jesus’ life, such as the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-9) and the raising of Jairus’ daughter (Mark 5:35-43).
Peter’s relationship with Jesus was unique in that he often acted as a spokesman for the group. In Matthew 16:15-19, Peter declared that Jesus was “the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
In response, Jesus said to Peter, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven.”
James
James was also a fisherman before he met Jesus. He was the son of Zebedee and brother of John (Matthew 4:21).
James was present at several significant moments in Jesus’ life as well. For instance, he witnessed the Transfiguration (Mark 9:2-8) and accompanied Peter and John when they saw Jairus’ daughter raised from the dead (Luke 8:49-56).
James had a fiery personality which earned him and his brother John the nickname “Sons of Thunder” (Mark 3:17). However, their eagerness to follow Jesus was evident. In Mark 10:35-45, James and John requested to sit at Jesus’ right and left hand in his kingdom.
Jesus responded by saying, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” (Mark 10:38).
John
John was the youngest of the three disciples and was also a fisherman before he met Jesus (Matthew 4:21). He is sometimes referred to as “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (John 13:23).
John was present at some of the most significant moments in Jesus’ ministry. For example, he witnessed the Transfiguration (Mark 9:2-8) and was one of two disciples who were sent to prepare for the Passover meal (Luke 22:7-13).
John had a deep love for Jesus and was known for his compassion. In John 13:23-25, we read that during the Last Supper, John leaned close to Jesus’ chest and asked him which disciple would betray him. In addition, it is believed that John wrote five books in the New Testament – the Gospel of John, First John, Second John, Third John, and Revelation.
Conclusion
Peter, James, and John were three disciples who were closest to Jesus during his earthly ministry. They witnessed some of his most significant moments and had unique relationships with him.
Peter acted as a spokesman for the group; James had a fiery personality but an eagerness to follow Christ; and John had a deep love for Jesus and wrote several books in the New Testament. These three men remind us that our relationship with Christ can be unique while still being grounded in love and truth.