Exhaustive research from the original text proves Judas was the "Disciple Whom Jesus Loved". The mystery similarly unfolds our own prophetic purpose and destiny, predestined by God for His Kingdom.
Preface:
This book unveils the unnamed disciple in the Book of John that remained a mystery for ages. Nothing more complete and biblical has ever been proven until now. Disclosures and exegesis of this book were carefully derived from their Hebrew and Greek origin to preserve the integrity of the text and the Lord's everlasting love. His love that transcends all human understanding.
The mystery of the anonymous disciple in the Book of John ushers the wisdom of God in Christ Jesus, revealing the true meaning of His unconditional love, grace and forgiveness for all sinners. And though we hope to know enough about the heart of Jesus, no one can truly measure how far His love will go for you and me. Learn as you discover the truth behind the mystery of, “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (mentioned in Jn. 13:23; 19:26; 20:2; 21:7; 21:20), also referred to as the only apostle among the twelve who "leaned on the breast of Jesus at supper" (Jn 21:20; Matt 26:19-21; Lu 22:14-15). Meet the real Jesus behind the parable. Find out how the writer of the book of John disclosed Judas as the mysterious “Disciple Whom Jesus Loved”, inconspicuously buried within its pages for ages.
The book "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved" has the answers to one of the most significant, yet, unresolved mysteries in the Book of John that had been shrouded for centuries by an old unfounded cliche (John the beloved). A complete misrepresentation (eisegesis) of the scriptures that misled majority into believing the false hermeneutics of who the real male disciple was who stood by the cross of Jesus just before He died. For whatever reason, this erroneous teaching became embedded in the minds of people. This is an enormous Spiritual misconception that needs to be addressed.
The revelation of the hidden truth in the Book of John is one of the greatest Spiritual awakening that unveils the true unconditional love of Jesus and how He had chosen each one of us to be His beloved disciple with a purpose (Jn 15:16; Eph. 1:11). We are His chosen living stones predestined before the foundation of the world to build His body; fulfilling our calling as an offering that is acceptable to God who blessed us with all Spiritual blessings in heavenly places according to the good pleasure of His will (Eph. 1:3-5). We are created to live by His supernatural gifts and purpose that is freely given to us, for His glory.
You will be transformed and renewed in your perception of who you really are in Christ Jesus. You will be filled with assurance and security as you meet the real Jesus and experience the true meaning of His purpose and His unconditional love that will permeate and touch your inner most being. Discover His zealousness for you and find your true hope, healing and enlightenment. You will learn how to stand securely on His word, knowing how Jesus victoriously conquered and defeated everything that was intended for our condemnation and destruction!
An excerpt from the Book:
"Whom Jesus "Really" Loved"
By Dr. Gary Pangan
The Parable:
"There was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved" (Jn 13:23 NKJV).
(John 13:21-31) ....When Jesus had said these things, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you that one of you shall betray me. Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spoke. Now there was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved. Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom he spoke. He then lying on Jesus’ breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it? Jesus answered, "he it is, to whom I shall give a piece of bread, when I have dipped it”. And when He had dipped the bread, He gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. And after the bread, Satan entered into him. Then, said Jesus unto him, what you do, do quickly. Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spoke this unto him. For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor. He then having received the bread went immediately out: and it was night. Therefore, when he was gone out, Jesus said, “Now” is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him.
The Unnamed Disciple:
"This is the disciple which testifies of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testimony is true" (Jn. 21:24).
(Jn 21:20-24 KJV) ...Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on His breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee?
Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me.
Then went this saying abroad among the brethren, that that disciple should not die: yet Jesus said not unto him, He shall not die; but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee?
This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testimony is true.
The parable of the mysterious disciple in the Book of John starts in the thirteenth chapter of the book. This is where the writer first started using the phrases "whom Jesus loved” (Jn 13:23), known also as "the disciple who leaned on the bosom of Jesus" (Jn 21:20 ). These phrases were used to address one particular unnamed disciple among the twelve Apostles. His name remained anonymous throughout the entire Book of John. And although the writer(s) used these phrases ("disciple whom Jesus loved" or "whom Jesus loved") five times (Jn 13:23; 19:26; 20:2; 21:7; 21:20) within the last chapters in the Book of John, they were never mentioned again elsewhere.
The ever pressing questions are why did John Zebedee (the assumed sole writer of the Book of John) keep the name of the "disciple whom Jesus loved" a secret, and why didn't he use his own name as he frequently did in all of his other books (If he was truly the mysterious disciple); neither did he use any of the five phrases in any of his other books, namely: the first Epistle of John, the second Epistle and his third Epistle including the Book of Revelation?
If John were truly the disciple disguised with these mysterious phrases, then it would just be logical to expect and see these phrases again; at least even once in any of his other books, where he openly used his name. But as often as these phrases were used, they surprisingly never appeared anywhere else in the Bible again; neither in the Old or in the New Testament. The other three Gospels, Matthew, Mark and Luke never even mentioned any of these phrases at all. Nowhere in the Bible were these phrases ever mentioned, except in the Book of John ( The complete study and personal applications are expounded in greater details within the 36 chapters of my Book "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved" ).
One logical reason why the writer(s) used the phrases “disciple whom Jesus loved” or "whom Jesus loved" (As well as other idioms, e.g. "the other disciple" ) was obviously to disguise or conceal (well documented in my book) the true identity of the eye witness who collaborated in writing some parts of the Book of John (Jn 21:24). Nevertheless, due to the complexity of the subject, the mystery of the anonymous disciple became an enigma to the readers of the fourth Gospel and because of its controversies, majority of the teachers of the word lost their enthusiasm in their Spiritual pursuit to unveil the true meaning of the parable. Therefore, majority of the readers of the Book of John, just gave in to the idea that John (the assumed sole author) was referring to himself whenever the phrases, "disciple whom Jesus loved” or the disciple who "leaned on the bosom of Jesus" (Jn 13:23; Jn 21:20) were mentioned.
Eventually, the mystery became a cliche that labeled John as, "John the beloved"; and over the years, it just turned into a preconceived theological embodiment. A misguided hermeneutics (interpretation) of the Scriptures; denying Jesus of His glorious attributes and the inherent truth in the kingdom of God. Evidently, people have complaisantly leaned more to the old traditional religious teaching, than to deeply examine the mysteries in the Kingdom of God.
The Spirit of truth and revelation has revealed the hidden mysteries of the "disciple whom Jesus loved". The Lord's eternal message of love and forgiveness; setting the captives free, declaring the wisdom of God in Christ Jesus to all who have sinned, great or small.
Everyone has a unique purpose in this life; predestined to be a part of His Kingdom and purpose; "to save that which was lost" (Matt 18:11 KJV). The power of the cross and the resurrection of Jesus is greatly deprived of its purpose and glory without declaring the fullness of His grace and mercy, through the unveiling of the "Disciple whom Jesus loved".
It is written in the Book of John, that the disciple referred to as the one “leaning on the bosom of Jesus” is the same disciple known also as, “disciple whom Jesus loved" (Jn 21:20); both descriptions refer to one and the same disciple. And though the writer addressed the anonymous disciple as “other Disciple" in another chapter of the book (Jn 18:16, similarly used in Jn 20:2 & 8 "other disciple, whom Jesus loved"), the writer also clearly made a distinction and identified the "other disciple" as the “disciple known to the high priest” (Greek word, "archiereus"; Strong's # G746 and G2409, meaning Chief Priest or high Priest). Judas was the only disciple among the twelve who is known to the Chief Priests because of their plan to capture Jesus (Matt. 26:14; Mk. 14:10,43; Lu. 22:3,4; Jn. 18:3). Not only did Judas know them, but he was also the only disciple given full authority over a band of men and officers from the temple (Jn. 18:3). No other disciple had this privilege except for Judas. John Zebedee was among the other disciples who fled and whom the Chief Priests and elders considered as enemy.
Lazarus, Mary Magdalene, the earthly mother of Jesus Mary or any of the other followers outside the twelve apostles (Matt 10:1-4) cannot be considered as "the disciple whom Jesus loved" according to the Scriptures. Matt. 26:19-21 and Lu. 22:14-15 attest to the truth that only the twelve disciples (Apostles) were the only ones present during the last supper. Therefore, no one other than one of the twelve disciples could have "leaned on the breast of Jesus" as "the disciple whom Jesus loved" did (Jn 21:20).
Following are Key verses showing for certain that none of the other followers of Jesus were present at the supper table except for the twelve Apostles. The following verses confines the disciple who "laid on the breast of Jesus during supper" whom the Scriptures refer to as, "the disciple whom Jesus loved" (Jn 21:20) to be within the twelve disciples (Apostles) of Jesus and no other.
" 19 And the disciples did as Jesus appointed them; and they made ready the Passover. 20 Now when the even was come, He sat down with the twelve (twelve, as clearly stated). 21 And as they did eat, he said, verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me" Matt 26:19-21 (KJV).
" 14 And when the hour was come, He sat down, and the twelve apostles with him. 15 And He said unto them, with desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer": Luke 22:14-15 (KJV).
Judas was the disciple whom the other followers of Jesus thought would not die (as a consequence for the betrayal of Jesus, Jn 21:21-23), and yet, Jesus did not say that he would not die, except that if Jesus wanted this disciple to remain alive until He came back (talking about His resurrection) what was it to them. Jesus Himself said, “...what is that to thee ? Follow thou Me” (Jn. 21:22,23). Jesus also wanted Judas (probably more than anyone) to witness the glorious fulfillment of His promised resurrection, as He frequently told His disciples. This was an event Jesus wouldn't want any of His followers to miss; as it was and is, the greatest and most glorious event ever. The prophecy He has foretold.
The unnamed disciple was the one who wrote and gave the detailed information of the events that took place inside the palace and at the courtyard. John Zebedee himself and the other disciples openly testified of the accuracy written by this disciple (The disciple whom Jesus loved). As it is written in the fourth gospel, “We know that “his” testimony is true” (Jn 21:24).
Judas wrote the sequence of events that happened before, during and after the crucifixion of Jesus. All the information that were gathered in the Book of John and the other disciples came from the written testimony of Judas. He was the only eye witness among all the disciples who can accurately give the full account of all the events and the sufferings that Jesus went through (Jn 21:24); including his personal (Judas) testimony of how he threw down the thirty pieces of silver (Who would actually know that?) in his frustration with the Priests and elders when they condemned Jesus to die (Matt 27:3-5). It would have been impossible to truly capture the authenticity of the events that happened to Jesus without the testimony of Judas. (Read the book and find out the full disclosures on, "When did Judas really hang himself"). Was it right after he left the temple? Or at a much later date; enough time to see the resurrection of Jesus, his Master?
This same disciple (The privileged and authorized disciple, Lu 22:3-5; Jn 18:3) was the one who stood by the foot of the cross ("the disciple standing by, whom He loved" Jn. 19:26). Standing close enough to hear and record every word that Jesus said while hanging on the cross; including how Jesus said, “Woman, behold thy son”, then Jesus turning to him ("The disciple whom He loved") said, “Behold thy mother”. The Bible says that this disciple took Mary (The earthly mother of Jesus) home, to his own house that very hour (Jn 19:26).
How can anyone truly comprehend that in the final moments of Jesus on the cross, is where He truly unveiled His divine purpose by demonstrating His love and forgiveness (The very first of His seven last phrases on the cross were, Lu 23:34 "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do). The very reason and purpose of His sacrificial offering was to forgive. On the cross is where He openly displayed His zealousness for all and every sinner to be saved (Jn. 3:17); including the crucified criminal beside Him (Lu 23:42,43). However, irrespective of His sufferings and death on the cross for the forgiveness of sins, the Lord's unconditional love became a stumbling block and controversy for people to believe that Judas can be the "disciple whom Jesus loved".
"...I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled ..." (John 13:18 KJV)
The natural mind cannot accept and comprehend, how Jesus could ever entrust His earthly mother Mary to a traitor and a thief like Judas; as if nothing wrong was ever done to Him? Yet, this is the very passage that expresses the very heart of the message of His offering on the cross; it is the Lord’s amazing love and forgiveness for all sinners (Jn 3:17; Matt 27:3,4; Jn 20:2-8; yet, who is able to judge?).
This is the same Jesus who still trusts you and I, in spite of who we are and what we have done. The salvation Jesus offers does not have boundaries or limitations; otherwise, His sacrificial offering would be incomplete.
No one can fully comprehend the measure of love Jesus offers (Eph.3:17-20). His love and forgiveness completely separates the sin from the sinner (upon receiving Jesus as your Savior); it is as if, the person has never been contaminated with sin at all, "...For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more", Heb 8:12 (KJV).
Does this amaze you? It is beyond the ability of the natural mind to understand such love; yet, this is the kind of love, grace and mercy that Jesus offers to all who repents and believe in Him, great or small. The question is, will He ever trust you or I again, in spite of our future sin and mistakes? The answer is an overwhelming, YES! "...For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance" Romans 11:29. "...But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound" Romans 5:20.
YES, in the very true sense of the word (Matt 18:21,22; 1 Jn 1:9; La 3;21,22; Heb 10:2)! NOW, THIS IS TRUTH! He is our ever faithful intercessor; He will never turn His back on us nor will He ever get tired of us. He remains faithful even if we're not, He knows everyone's weaknesses...and strength. We are the very reason why He offered to die on the cross at Calvary; He is our absolute ever present deliverer and no one else (1 Tim 2:5). No matter what our hearts and our minds dictate.
1 Jn 3:20 "For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things" (NKJV).
1 Jn 2:1,2 "...and if anyone sins, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world" (NKJV).
The love of Jesus has the power to completely absolve anyone from the sinful nature, making anyone pure and white as snow. It is as if, no trace of sin has ever entered the person (Is 1:18).
The verses in Jn 19:26-28 may not seem so significant at first glance, until you realize whom the Lord entrusted His earthly mother Mary to. And though some may struggle with this, I can only say, that the ways of the lord are different from ours (Is 55:9). It may be difficult to fully comprehend God’s love, if we have never completely experienced dying to ourselves and living according to the likeness of Jesus. His boundless grace and enduring mercy overflows to eternal life. This is the kind of everlasting love He openly offers to everyone...yes, to you as well.
“…The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is long suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance”. 2 Peter 3:9 (K.J.V)
“… O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? Romans 11:33-34 (K.J.V)
This anonymous disciple (“whom Jesus loved”) was the same disciple who outran Peter to get to the tomb first (why?). The Bible described that this other disciple ("whom Jesus Loved", Jn 20:2-8) who came first to the sepulcher ahead of Peter, just stooped down and looked in, but hesitated to go inside. I find no reason why he had to outran Peter, unless this "other disciple" ("Whom Jesus loved") was anxiously fearful and tormented by his own guilt to face the consequences for his actions. Peter on the other hand, arriving after him went straight inside the tomb (as any normal disciple would). Only then, did this "other disciple" found the courage to enter the tomb. All this happened after Mary Magdalene gave them the news concerning the missing body of Jesus. The anonymous disciple who outran Peter to the tomb of Jesus referred to as “the other Disciple”, was also identified as the disciple “whom Jesus loved” (Jn 20:2).
The Scripture says, that this "other disciple, whom Jesus loved" (Jn 20:2) who came to the tomb first, only went inside after Peter did; then, seeing the tomb empty, “he saw and believed” (Jn 20:8). Unusual and yet significant; why did the writer single out the unnamed disciple (Jn 20:8) and completely ignored Peter who also did not believe in the resurrection, as stated in the following verse (Jn 20:9), "...they (including Peter and all the other disciples) still did not understand from Scriptures that Jesus had to rise from the dead". However, although both Peter and the "disciple whom Jesus loved" did not understand the resurrection, the writer only used the word "he", giving emphasis only to the disciple whom Jesus loved (the writer's personal disclosure), instead of using the word "they" which should have included Peter. But this is where our Spiritual power of understanding and revelations are challenged, to go beyond our natural understanding and discover the hidden truth in the mysteries of the Kingdom of God.
The disciple whom Jesus loved wavered (better pictured as, fearfully knowing whom he had betrayed) before he went inside the tomb, then seeing the tomb empty...he then knew for sure in his heart that Jesus (the Son of God he betrayed) indeed rose from the grave (what an emotional trauma Judas must have felt). The "hesitant" disciple by far was not John Zebedee (otherwise, John would have ran inside the tomb ahead of Peter), but undoubtedly...Judas.
Judas was the disciple who "saw and believed" (Jn 20:8). There are no other rational reasons for the writer of the Book of John to give so much attention and personal detail on the anonymous disciple, if the writer did not intend to give away (by way of revelation) the true identity of the mysterious disciple; to a degree that the emphasis was more on the emotional condition and reactions of the disciple referred to as, "the other disciple, whom Jesus loved", rather than the missing body of Jesus Christ. It does not take too much to connect this mysterious disciple to Judas. Why didn't the writer just named this anonymous disciple by his proper name?
(This question and a lot more revealed mysteries are answered in the other 36 chapters of my book "Whom Jesus Really Loved". There are so much more that the Lord has revealed. The answers to the mystery in the parable of the "Disciple whom Jesus loved" is filled with revelations and understanding that applies to our daily lives as believers or unbelievers of Jesus).
The Bible also identified, that the "disciple whom Jesus loved" was the first disciple who recognized Jesus, when Jesus called out to His disciples from the shore of lake Tiberias after His resurrection (Jn 21:7). Peter and the rest of the disciples were fishing in their boats when Jesus showed up. The Bible says, none of the disciples knew that is was Jesus calling out from the shore (“knew not that it was Jesus” Jn 21:4), mainly because the disciples were more concerned about catching some fish than to expect for Jesus to show up. Furthermore, none of the other disciples were in a state of anxiety and apprehension unlike Judas. By this time, Judas already knew that Jesus rose from the grave, seeing that the tomb was empty while he was with Peter (Jn 20:4-8). So, in his guilty-ridden mind, he knew that it's just a matter of time before Jesus shows up to meet with them face to face. In his anxiousness, he knew even from a distance that it was the Lord calling, just as he expected He would (the thought never really left his mind). It was not a surprise that Judas was the only disciple who recognized that it was the Lord waiting on the shore; Judas then said to Peter.... “It is the Lord” (Jn 21:7).
These are just some instances in the Bible showing proof of time and events where Judas (disciple whom Jesus loved) was present and played a major role in the ministry of Jesus. The Scriptures indicated several other incidents where Judas was used by the Lord to be His chosen disciple (Lu 22:3) to fulfill His glorious plan for our salvation. The Lord's intent was never to condemn or put Judas to shame; but to show that every individual has a different purpose in the body of Christ; as God foreknew from the beginning (Jn 15:16).
"...in whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will" Eph. 1:10-11 (KJV).
The purpose of everyone's life is a mystery on its own, awaiting for us to discover. The Lord has sent the Holy Spirit to guide us and help us understand the purpose of our calling (1Jn 2:27). And though time and time again, we ignore His gentle voice, going on our own rebellious ways to the point of feeling lost, hopeless and forsaken; yet, He never really left us; not even for a moment, nor will He ever forsake us.....ever! He loves us with an everlasting passion and zealousness.
If we can truly find the promised inheritance within us, then we have truly discovered the greatest treasure of our purpose and the unparalleled meaning of our existence, according to God's will. There are so much that the Lord has revealed that we are not able to contain. Read the book, "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved" and discover the awesome revelation of His love, grace and mercy, that is never exhausted, but forever fresh and new every morning (La. 3:23).
Every claim and exegesis were inspired by the Lord's wisdom with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. All research and biblical studies were based according to their Hebrew and Greek origin. This book is the Lord's great awakening to prepare the world, believers or not, for the last days before His glorious appearance!
Proving Judas to be the "Disciple Whom Jesus Loved" may be a challenge because of the religious and traditional mind-set of some; however, making people understand that in Christ there is an unconditional love that is so pure, it is beyond what our minds and our hearts can conceive; and to show that the greatness of His love can forgive the worst of all sinners...is almost impossible for some to accept and believe; forgetting that all of us have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Ro. 3:23).
This is just an excerpt from a chapter of my book "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved". The book consists of 36 Chapters which are all different in context and Spiritual enlightenment. Every chapter aims to deliver the word of life, truth and hope; centered on the magnificent offering of Jesus Christ on the cross!
This book unveils the unnamed disciple in the Book of John that remained a mystery for ages. Nothing more complete and biblical has ever been proven until now. Disclosures and exegesis of this book were carefully derived from their Hebrew and Greek origin to preserve the integrity of the text and the Lord's everlasting love. His love that transcends all human understanding.
The mystery of the anonymous disciple in the Book of John ushers the wisdom of God in Christ Jesus, revealing the true meaning of His unconditional love, grace and forgiveness for all sinners. And though we hope to know enough about the heart of Jesus, no one can truly measure how far His love will go for you and me. Learn as you discover the truth behind the mystery of, “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (mentioned in Jn. 13:23; 19:26; 20:2; 21:7; 21:20), also referred to as the only apostle among the twelve who "leaned on the breast of Jesus at supper" (Jn 21:20; Matt 26:19-21; Lu 22:14-15). Meet the real Jesus behind the parable. Find out how the writer of the book of John disclosed Judas as the mysterious “Disciple Whom Jesus Loved”, inconspicuously buried within its pages for ages.
The book "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved" has the answers to one of the most significant, yet, unresolved mysteries in the Book of John that had been shrouded for centuries by an old unfounded cliche (John the beloved). A complete misrepresentation (eisegesis) of the scriptures that misled majority into believing the false hermeneutics of who the real male disciple was who stood by the cross of Jesus just before He died. For whatever reason, this erroneous teaching became embedded in the minds of people. This is an enormous Spiritual misconception that needs to be addressed.
The revelation of the hidden truth in the Book of John is one of the greatest Spiritual awakening that unveils the true unconditional love of Jesus and how He had chosen each one of us to be His beloved disciple with a purpose (Jn 15:16; Eph. 1:11). We are His chosen living stones predestined before the foundation of the world to build His body; fulfilling our calling as an offering that is acceptable to God who blessed us with all Spiritual blessings in heavenly places according to the good pleasure of His will (Eph. 1:3-5). We are created to live by His supernatural gifts and purpose that is freely given to us, for His glory.
You will be transformed and renewed in your perception of who you really are in Christ Jesus. You will be filled with assurance and security as you meet the real Jesus and experience the true meaning of His purpose and His unconditional love that will permeate and touch your inner most being. Discover His zealousness for you and find your true hope, healing and enlightenment. You will learn how to stand securely on His word, knowing how Jesus victoriously conquered and defeated everything that was intended for our condemnation and destruction!
An excerpt from the Book:
"Whom Jesus "Really" Loved"
By Dr. Gary Pangan
The Parable:
"There was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved" (Jn 13:23 NKJV).
(John 13:21-31) ....When Jesus had said these things, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you that one of you shall betray me. Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spoke. Now there was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved. Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom he spoke. He then lying on Jesus’ breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it? Jesus answered, "he it is, to whom I shall give a piece of bread, when I have dipped it”. And when He had dipped the bread, He gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. And after the bread, Satan entered into him. Then, said Jesus unto him, what you do, do quickly. Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spoke this unto him. For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor. He then having received the bread went immediately out: and it was night. Therefore, when he was gone out, Jesus said, “Now” is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him.
The Unnamed Disciple:
"This is the disciple which testifies of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testimony is true" (Jn. 21:24).
(Jn 21:20-24 KJV) ...Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on His breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee?
Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me.
Then went this saying abroad among the brethren, that that disciple should not die: yet Jesus said not unto him, He shall not die; but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee?
This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testimony is true.
The parable of the mysterious disciple in the Book of John starts in the thirteenth chapter of the book. This is where the writer first started using the phrases "whom Jesus loved” (Jn 13:23), known also as "the disciple who leaned on the bosom of Jesus" (Jn 21:20 ). These phrases were used to address one particular unnamed disciple among the twelve Apostles. His name remained anonymous throughout the entire Book of John. And although the writer(s) used these phrases ("disciple whom Jesus loved" or "whom Jesus loved") five times (Jn 13:23; 19:26; 20:2; 21:7; 21:20) within the last chapters in the Book of John, they were never mentioned again elsewhere.
The ever pressing questions are why did John Zebedee (the assumed sole writer of the Book of John) keep the name of the "disciple whom Jesus loved" a secret, and why didn't he use his own name as he frequently did in all of his other books (If he was truly the mysterious disciple); neither did he use any of the five phrases in any of his other books, namely: the first Epistle of John, the second Epistle and his third Epistle including the Book of Revelation?
If John were truly the disciple disguised with these mysterious phrases, then it would just be logical to expect and see these phrases again; at least even once in any of his other books, where he openly used his name. But as often as these phrases were used, they surprisingly never appeared anywhere else in the Bible again; neither in the Old or in the New Testament. The other three Gospels, Matthew, Mark and Luke never even mentioned any of these phrases at all. Nowhere in the Bible were these phrases ever mentioned, except in the Book of John ( The complete study and personal applications are expounded in greater details within the 36 chapters of my Book "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved" ).
One logical reason why the writer(s) used the phrases “disciple whom Jesus loved” or "whom Jesus loved" (As well as other idioms, e.g. "the other disciple" ) was obviously to disguise or conceal (well documented in my book) the true identity of the eye witness who collaborated in writing some parts of the Book of John (Jn 21:24). Nevertheless, due to the complexity of the subject, the mystery of the anonymous disciple became an enigma to the readers of the fourth Gospel and because of its controversies, majority of the teachers of the word lost their enthusiasm in their Spiritual pursuit to unveil the true meaning of the parable. Therefore, majority of the readers of the Book of John, just gave in to the idea that John (the assumed sole author) was referring to himself whenever the phrases, "disciple whom Jesus loved” or the disciple who "leaned on the bosom of Jesus" (Jn 13:23; Jn 21:20) were mentioned.
Eventually, the mystery became a cliche that labeled John as, "John the beloved"; and over the years, it just turned into a preconceived theological embodiment. A misguided hermeneutics (interpretation) of the Scriptures; denying Jesus of His glorious attributes and the inherent truth in the kingdom of God. Evidently, people have complaisantly leaned more to the old traditional religious teaching, than to deeply examine the mysteries in the Kingdom of God.
The Spirit of truth and revelation has revealed the hidden mysteries of the "disciple whom Jesus loved". The Lord's eternal message of love and forgiveness; setting the captives free, declaring the wisdom of God in Christ Jesus to all who have sinned, great or small.
Everyone has a unique purpose in this life; predestined to be a part of His Kingdom and purpose; "to save that which was lost" (Matt 18:11 KJV). The power of the cross and the resurrection of Jesus is greatly deprived of its purpose and glory without declaring the fullness of His grace and mercy, through the unveiling of the "Disciple whom Jesus loved".
It is written in the Book of John, that the disciple referred to as the one “leaning on the bosom of Jesus” is the same disciple known also as, “disciple whom Jesus loved" (Jn 21:20); both descriptions refer to one and the same disciple. And though the writer addressed the anonymous disciple as “other Disciple" in another chapter of the book (Jn 18:16, similarly used in Jn 20:2 & 8 "other disciple, whom Jesus loved"), the writer also clearly made a distinction and identified the "other disciple" as the “disciple known to the high priest” (Greek word, "archiereus"; Strong's # G746 and G2409, meaning Chief Priest or high Priest). Judas was the only disciple among the twelve who is known to the Chief Priests because of their plan to capture Jesus (Matt. 26:14; Mk. 14:10,43; Lu. 22:3,4; Jn. 18:3). Not only did Judas know them, but he was also the only disciple given full authority over a band of men and officers from the temple (Jn. 18:3). No other disciple had this privilege except for Judas. John Zebedee was among the other disciples who fled and whom the Chief Priests and elders considered as enemy.
Lazarus, Mary Magdalene, the earthly mother of Jesus Mary or any of the other followers outside the twelve apostles (Matt 10:1-4) cannot be considered as "the disciple whom Jesus loved" according to the Scriptures. Matt. 26:19-21 and Lu. 22:14-15 attest to the truth that only the twelve disciples (Apostles) were the only ones present during the last supper. Therefore, no one other than one of the twelve disciples could have "leaned on the breast of Jesus" as "the disciple whom Jesus loved" did (Jn 21:20).
Following are Key verses showing for certain that none of the other followers of Jesus were present at the supper table except for the twelve Apostles. The following verses confines the disciple who "laid on the breast of Jesus during supper" whom the Scriptures refer to as, "the disciple whom Jesus loved" (Jn 21:20) to be within the twelve disciples (Apostles) of Jesus and no other.
" 19 And the disciples did as Jesus appointed them; and they made ready the Passover. 20 Now when the even was come, He sat down with the twelve (twelve, as clearly stated). 21 And as they did eat, he said, verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me" Matt 26:19-21 (KJV).
" 14 And when the hour was come, He sat down, and the twelve apostles with him. 15 And He said unto them, with desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer": Luke 22:14-15 (KJV).
Judas was the disciple whom the other followers of Jesus thought would not die (as a consequence for the betrayal of Jesus, Jn 21:21-23), and yet, Jesus did not say that he would not die, except that if Jesus wanted this disciple to remain alive until He came back (talking about His resurrection) what was it to them. Jesus Himself said, “...what is that to thee ? Follow thou Me” (Jn. 21:22,23). Jesus also wanted Judas (probably more than anyone) to witness the glorious fulfillment of His promised resurrection, as He frequently told His disciples. This was an event Jesus wouldn't want any of His followers to miss; as it was and is, the greatest and most glorious event ever. The prophecy He has foretold.
The unnamed disciple was the one who wrote and gave the detailed information of the events that took place inside the palace and at the courtyard. John Zebedee himself and the other disciples openly testified of the accuracy written by this disciple (The disciple whom Jesus loved). As it is written in the fourth gospel, “We know that “his” testimony is true” (Jn 21:24).
Judas wrote the sequence of events that happened before, during and after the crucifixion of Jesus. All the information that were gathered in the Book of John and the other disciples came from the written testimony of Judas. He was the only eye witness among all the disciples who can accurately give the full account of all the events and the sufferings that Jesus went through (Jn 21:24); including his personal (Judas) testimony of how he threw down the thirty pieces of silver (Who would actually know that?) in his frustration with the Priests and elders when they condemned Jesus to die (Matt 27:3-5). It would have been impossible to truly capture the authenticity of the events that happened to Jesus without the testimony of Judas. (Read the book and find out the full disclosures on, "When did Judas really hang himself"). Was it right after he left the temple? Or at a much later date; enough time to see the resurrection of Jesus, his Master?
This same disciple (The privileged and authorized disciple, Lu 22:3-5; Jn 18:3) was the one who stood by the foot of the cross ("the disciple standing by, whom He loved" Jn. 19:26). Standing close enough to hear and record every word that Jesus said while hanging on the cross; including how Jesus said, “Woman, behold thy son”, then Jesus turning to him ("The disciple whom He loved") said, “Behold thy mother”. The Bible says that this disciple took Mary (The earthly mother of Jesus) home, to his own house that very hour (Jn 19:26).
How can anyone truly comprehend that in the final moments of Jesus on the cross, is where He truly unveiled His divine purpose by demonstrating His love and forgiveness (The very first of His seven last phrases on the cross were, Lu 23:34 "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do). The very reason and purpose of His sacrificial offering was to forgive. On the cross is where He openly displayed His zealousness for all and every sinner to be saved (Jn. 3:17); including the crucified criminal beside Him (Lu 23:42,43). However, irrespective of His sufferings and death on the cross for the forgiveness of sins, the Lord's unconditional love became a stumbling block and controversy for people to believe that Judas can be the "disciple whom Jesus loved".
"...I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled ..." (John 13:18 KJV)
The natural mind cannot accept and comprehend, how Jesus could ever entrust His earthly mother Mary to a traitor and a thief like Judas; as if nothing wrong was ever done to Him? Yet, this is the very passage that expresses the very heart of the message of His offering on the cross; it is the Lord’s amazing love and forgiveness for all sinners (Jn 3:17; Matt 27:3,4; Jn 20:2-8; yet, who is able to judge?).
This is the same Jesus who still trusts you and I, in spite of who we are and what we have done. The salvation Jesus offers does not have boundaries or limitations; otherwise, His sacrificial offering would be incomplete.
No one can fully comprehend the measure of love Jesus offers (Eph.3:17-20). His love and forgiveness completely separates the sin from the sinner (upon receiving Jesus as your Savior); it is as if, the person has never been contaminated with sin at all, "...For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more", Heb 8:12 (KJV).
Does this amaze you? It is beyond the ability of the natural mind to understand such love; yet, this is the kind of love, grace and mercy that Jesus offers to all who repents and believe in Him, great or small. The question is, will He ever trust you or I again, in spite of our future sin and mistakes? The answer is an overwhelming, YES! "...For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance" Romans 11:29. "...But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound" Romans 5:20.
YES, in the very true sense of the word (Matt 18:21,22; 1 Jn 1:9; La 3;21,22; Heb 10:2)! NOW, THIS IS TRUTH! He is our ever faithful intercessor; He will never turn His back on us nor will He ever get tired of us. He remains faithful even if we're not, He knows everyone's weaknesses...and strength. We are the very reason why He offered to die on the cross at Calvary; He is our absolute ever present deliverer and no one else (1 Tim 2:5). No matter what our hearts and our minds dictate.
1 Jn 3:20 "For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things" (NKJV).
1 Jn 2:1,2 "...and if anyone sins, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world" (NKJV).
The love of Jesus has the power to completely absolve anyone from the sinful nature, making anyone pure and white as snow. It is as if, no trace of sin has ever entered the person (Is 1:18).
The verses in Jn 19:26-28 may not seem so significant at first glance, until you realize whom the Lord entrusted His earthly mother Mary to. And though some may struggle with this, I can only say, that the ways of the lord are different from ours (Is 55:9). It may be difficult to fully comprehend God’s love, if we have never completely experienced dying to ourselves and living according to the likeness of Jesus. His boundless grace and enduring mercy overflows to eternal life. This is the kind of everlasting love He openly offers to everyone...yes, to you as well.
“…The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is long suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance”. 2 Peter 3:9 (K.J.V)
“… O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? Romans 11:33-34 (K.J.V)
This anonymous disciple (“whom Jesus loved”) was the same disciple who outran Peter to get to the tomb first (why?). The Bible described that this other disciple ("whom Jesus Loved", Jn 20:2-8) who came first to the sepulcher ahead of Peter, just stooped down and looked in, but hesitated to go inside. I find no reason why he had to outran Peter, unless this "other disciple" ("Whom Jesus loved") was anxiously fearful and tormented by his own guilt to face the consequences for his actions. Peter on the other hand, arriving after him went straight inside the tomb (as any normal disciple would). Only then, did this "other disciple" found the courage to enter the tomb. All this happened after Mary Magdalene gave them the news concerning the missing body of Jesus. The anonymous disciple who outran Peter to the tomb of Jesus referred to as “the other Disciple”, was also identified as the disciple “whom Jesus loved” (Jn 20:2).
The Scripture says, that this "other disciple, whom Jesus loved" (Jn 20:2) who came to the tomb first, only went inside after Peter did; then, seeing the tomb empty, “he saw and believed” (Jn 20:8). Unusual and yet significant; why did the writer single out the unnamed disciple (Jn 20:8) and completely ignored Peter who also did not believe in the resurrection, as stated in the following verse (Jn 20:9), "...they (including Peter and all the other disciples) still did not understand from Scriptures that Jesus had to rise from the dead". However, although both Peter and the "disciple whom Jesus loved" did not understand the resurrection, the writer only used the word "he", giving emphasis only to the disciple whom Jesus loved (the writer's personal disclosure), instead of using the word "they" which should have included Peter. But this is where our Spiritual power of understanding and revelations are challenged, to go beyond our natural understanding and discover the hidden truth in the mysteries of the Kingdom of God.
The disciple whom Jesus loved wavered (better pictured as, fearfully knowing whom he had betrayed) before he went inside the tomb, then seeing the tomb empty...he then knew for sure in his heart that Jesus (the Son of God he betrayed) indeed rose from the grave (what an emotional trauma Judas must have felt). The "hesitant" disciple by far was not John Zebedee (otherwise, John would have ran inside the tomb ahead of Peter), but undoubtedly...Judas.
Judas was the disciple who "saw and believed" (Jn 20:8). There are no other rational reasons for the writer of the Book of John to give so much attention and personal detail on the anonymous disciple, if the writer did not intend to give away (by way of revelation) the true identity of the mysterious disciple; to a degree that the emphasis was more on the emotional condition and reactions of the disciple referred to as, "the other disciple, whom Jesus loved", rather than the missing body of Jesus Christ. It does not take too much to connect this mysterious disciple to Judas. Why didn't the writer just named this anonymous disciple by his proper name?
(This question and a lot more revealed mysteries are answered in the other 36 chapters of my book "Whom Jesus Really Loved". There are so much more that the Lord has revealed. The answers to the mystery in the parable of the "Disciple whom Jesus loved" is filled with revelations and understanding that applies to our daily lives as believers or unbelievers of Jesus).
The Bible also identified, that the "disciple whom Jesus loved" was the first disciple who recognized Jesus, when Jesus called out to His disciples from the shore of lake Tiberias after His resurrection (Jn 21:7). Peter and the rest of the disciples were fishing in their boats when Jesus showed up. The Bible says, none of the disciples knew that is was Jesus calling out from the shore (“knew not that it was Jesus” Jn 21:4), mainly because the disciples were more concerned about catching some fish than to expect for Jesus to show up. Furthermore, none of the other disciples were in a state of anxiety and apprehension unlike Judas. By this time, Judas already knew that Jesus rose from the grave, seeing that the tomb was empty while he was with Peter (Jn 20:4-8). So, in his guilty-ridden mind, he knew that it's just a matter of time before Jesus shows up to meet with them face to face. In his anxiousness, he knew even from a distance that it was the Lord calling, just as he expected He would (the thought never really left his mind). It was not a surprise that Judas was the only disciple who recognized that it was the Lord waiting on the shore; Judas then said to Peter.... “It is the Lord” (Jn 21:7).
These are just some instances in the Bible showing proof of time and events where Judas (disciple whom Jesus loved) was present and played a major role in the ministry of Jesus. The Scriptures indicated several other incidents where Judas was used by the Lord to be His chosen disciple (Lu 22:3) to fulfill His glorious plan for our salvation. The Lord's intent was never to condemn or put Judas to shame; but to show that every individual has a different purpose in the body of Christ; as God foreknew from the beginning (Jn 15:16).
"...in whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will" Eph. 1:10-11 (KJV).
The purpose of everyone's life is a mystery on its own, awaiting for us to discover. The Lord has sent the Holy Spirit to guide us and help us understand the purpose of our calling (1Jn 2:27). And though time and time again, we ignore His gentle voice, going on our own rebellious ways to the point of feeling lost, hopeless and forsaken; yet, He never really left us; not even for a moment, nor will He ever forsake us.....ever! He loves us with an everlasting passion and zealousness.
If we can truly find the promised inheritance within us, then we have truly discovered the greatest treasure of our purpose and the unparalleled meaning of our existence, according to God's will. There are so much that the Lord has revealed that we are not able to contain. Read the book, "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved" and discover the awesome revelation of His love, grace and mercy, that is never exhausted, but forever fresh and new every morning (La. 3:23).
Every claim and exegesis were inspired by the Lord's wisdom with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. All research and biblical studies were based according to their Hebrew and Greek origin. This book is the Lord's great awakening to prepare the world, believers or not, for the last days before His glorious appearance!
Proving Judas to be the "Disciple Whom Jesus Loved" may be a challenge because of the religious and traditional mind-set of some; however, making people understand that in Christ there is an unconditional love that is so pure, it is beyond what our minds and our hearts can conceive; and to show that the greatness of His love can forgive the worst of all sinners...is almost impossible for some to accept and believe; forgetting that all of us have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Ro. 3:23).
This is just an excerpt from a chapter of my book "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved". The book consists of 36 Chapters which are all different in context and Spiritual enlightenment. Every chapter aims to deliver the word of life, truth and hope; centered on the magnificent offering of Jesus Christ on the cross!
Dr. Gary Pangan
Evangelist, Preacher, Teacher, Author
Email: Garypangan@gmail.com
Book Video: "Whom Jesus Really Loved"
Blog: GaryPanganMinistries
The book "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved" is available at all B&n.com, Amazon.com and most Booksellers.
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