Saint the Apostle John
Saint John the Apostle, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ, is traditionally credited with authoring the Gospel According to Saint John, a foundational text in Christian theology. His writings are distinguished by their profound theological insights and emphasis on the divinity of Christ, setting them apart from the synoptic gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The Gospel of John introduces key concepts such as the 'Word' (Logos) and explores themes of love, light, and eternal life, making it a pivotal work in the New Testament. In addition to his gospel, John is also associated with the Book of Revelation, which presents a vivid apocalyptic vision and has significantly influenced Christian eschatology. His contributions to early Christian thought and literature have established him as a central figure in the development of Christian doctrine. Revered as a saint, John is often depicted as the beloved disciple, and his legacy endures through his writings and the theological discussions they have inspired throughout the centuries.
Famous Quotes
View all 7 quotes“For those who have little are not equally held in subjection by their possessions as those who overflow with affluence, for then the love of it becomes more tyrannical. The increase of acquisitions kindles the flame more, and renders those who possess them poorer.””
“Musical instruments in celebrating the praises of God would be no more suitable than the burning of incense, the lighting of lamps, and the restoration of the other shadows of the law. The Papists therefore, have foolishly borrowed, this, as well as many other things, from the Jews. Men who are fond of outward pomp may delight in that noise; but the simplicity which God recommends to us by the apostles is far more pleasing to him. Paul allows us to bless God in the public assembly of the saints, only in a known tongue (1 Corinthians 14:16) What shall we then say of chanting, which fills the ears with nothing but an empty sound?””
“But now I realise that true charity consists in putting up with all one’s neighbour’s faults, never being surprised by his weakness, and being inspired by the least of his virtues . . . When God, under the old law, told His people to love their neighbours as themselves, He had not yet come down to earth. As He knew how much we love ourselves, He could not ask us to do more. But when Jesus gave His apostles a “new commandment, His own commandment,” He did not ask only that we should love our neighbours as ourselves but that we should love them as He loves them and as He will love them to the end of time. O Jesus, I know You command nothing that is impossible. You know how weak and imperfect I am, and You know only too well that I could never love the other nuns as You love them if You Yourself did not love them within me.””
Books from the author
