In the second part of the Series on John the Son of Zebedee and brother of James having the unique ID of being the “Disciple whom Jesus loved“, let’s today focus on other weighty privileges which came John’s way courtesy his unique ID…
Redemption…
As John alone of all the disciples was beside the Redeemer in his last hours, he alone had the privilege of seeing the Divine redemption work completed (Jesus’ atoning sacrifice for sinful mankind). Is it not only in John’s Gospel, we see triumphant cry of Jesus on the Cross (the Sixth utterance) recorded “It is finished” (John 19:30).
In essence, the difference between Saving Christian faith and others is this…”While others call for several good works to obtain salvation, Christianity calls simply for acceptance in faith of the work already finished (Romans 10:9-10).
Resurrection…
Lo and behold, after being the first hand witness of the completion of the Redemption work who other than John should have the privilege of being the first witness amongst the disciples to the resurrection of his beloved Master.
“So Peter and the other disciple (John) started for the tomb. Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in. Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen. Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed.” (John 20:3-8)
Oh how to be loved by the Lord!!! Privileges chase and overtake you…
Prayer: Father, once again we adore you for the infinite love which you pour upon us your children, irrespective of our many frailties. Enable us always to live lives worthy of our high calling. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Suresh Manoharan
An Unprofitable Servant
J and SM Ministries
(To access the entire “Your ID Please” mini-series, please click here.)