JUDAS - The Beloved disciple of Jesus - Comprehensive studies from the original manuscripts for authenticity, with commentaries and life applications. The eternal forgiving heart of Jesus for all sinners.
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 declaration of His everlasting 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. No one can truly claim to have known the Lord’s heart until you discover the hidden truth behind the phrases, “disciple whom Jesus loved” , or "whom Jesus loved" (mentioned in Jn 13:23; 19:26; 20:2; 21:7; 21:20), also known as the disciple who "leaned on His breast at supper" (Jn 21:20). Find out how John Zebedee revealed the real Jesus, when he unmasked Judas as the true “Disciple Whom Jesus Loved” buried in the Book of John for ages.
The book "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved" has the answers to one of the most significant yet unresolved mysteries in the Gospels that had been shrouded for centuries by an old adulterated religious doctrine. The revelation of the hidden truth in the Book of John is one of the greatest awakening that shows how Jesus had hand picked each one of us to be a disciple with a purpose; a chosen generation whom He had preordained to govern and live through His supernatural calling that is within us, for His glory.
You will be transformed and renewed in your perception of who you 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 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 overcame everything that was intended for our defeat and destruction!
An excerpt from the Book:
"Whom Jesus "Really" Loved"
By Dr. Gary Pangan
The Parable (Chapter 2 0f 36):
"There was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved".
(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 parable of the mysterious disciple in the Book of John starts in the thirteenth chapter of his book. This is where the writer first started using the phrase, "whom Jesus loved” (Jn 13:23), and the disciple who leaned on Jesus' bosom (Jn.13:23, Jn. 21:20 ). These terms were used synonymously to address one specific disciple, whose name remained anonymous throughout the entire Book of John. And although the writer used the phrases "disciple whom Jesus loved" or "whom Jesus loved" several times in the Book of John (Jn 13:23; 19:26; 20:2; 21:7; 21:20) within the last nine chapters, these phrases were never mentioned again. The ever pressing questions are, why did John Zebedee (the assumed sole writer of the Book of John) keep the name of the "mysterious disciple" a secret, and why didn't he use his own name (if he truly was the mysterious disciple) or mention any of theses phrases again 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 Zebedee was truly the disciple behind these mysterious phrases, it would just be normal to expect and see these phrases again; at least even once in 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 they ever mentioned, except in the Book of John (the complete study and personal applications are found in the other chapters of my Book "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved").
One of the many biblical reasons why the writer used the phrases “disciple whom Jesus loved” or "whom Jesus loved" (and other idioms) were to disguise and conceal (well documented in my book) the true identity of the eye witness who co-wrote (or contributed) some parts in 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 Gospels; and because of controversies, majority of the teachers of the word lost their enthusiasm in their Spiritual pursuit to unveil the true meaning of the mystery. Therefore, majority of the readers of the Book of John, just surrendered 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 cliché that labeled John as, "John the beloved"; and over the years, it just turned into a theological embodiment. A completely misguided hermeneutics (interpretation) of the Scriptures, denying Jesus of His glorious attributes and the inherent truth in the kingdom of God. It is absurd for the teachers of the word, filled with the wisdom of the Holy Spirit to casually sweep this thunderous message of the Lord under the rug of traditional ignorance to spoon feed the people with an erroneous unenlightened religious teaching, without any recourse for truth and insight.
Exhaustive research with the wisdom and revelation by the Holy Spirit will reveal the truth hidden in the mystery of the "disciple whom Jesus loved". Therefore, I pray that our Spiritual eyes would finally be opened to see the truth and rightfully divide the word of God; as we reach out to the lost and truly set the captives free; declaring the unsurpassed love of Jesus to all who have sinned and fallen; to them who are in distress drowning in sorrow, and for the ones' who need to be lifted up from the ashes of grief and the gates of hell.
Each one of us has a purpose, great or small; the Lord knowing all things predestined His called and chosen disciples (Eph 1:3-8) to be a part of His mission and purpose, which is "to save that which was lost" (Matt 18:11 KJV). The power of the cross is denied of its completion without fully declaring the boundless grace, mercy and love of Jesus. The power of His blood is greater than the darkest epitome of wickedness and sin that you, I, Judas and everyone else combined has ever or will ever commit (except for the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit). There is no greater love and forgiveness than what Jesus had accomplished on the cross at Calvary (Ro. 8:35-39, Heb.10:10, Col. 2:14,15)!
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 this anonymous disciple as “other Disciple" in another chapter of the book (Jn 18:16, which was similarly used in Jn 20:2,8 "other disciple, whom Jesus loved"), the writer also immediately made a distinction and identified the "other disciple" as, “disciple known to the high priest” (Greek word for high priest= "archiereus" with Strong's # G746 and G2409, meaning chief priest). Judas was the only disciple among the twelve who is well known to the chief priests, high priest, pharisees and the elders because of their agreement to betray Jesus (Matt. 26:14; Mk. 14:10,43; Lu. 22:3,4; Jn. 18:3). Not only did Judas know the high priest, but he was 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. This is only one of the many reasons why John Zebedee cannot be considered as the "disciple whom Jesus loved"; he was never mentioned to have known nor have any relations with any of the priests, and so does with the other disciples; therefore, none of them can be considered to be the disciple "whom Jesus loved" either.
Lazarus, Mary Magdalene, the earthly mother of Jesus Mary or any of the other followers outside the twelve apostles are all eliminated in the process as well, based on the Scripture in Matt 26:19-21. Not only were they not present at the Passover supper with Jesus, but none of them knew the high priest either.
" 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)
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; as 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 beloved followers to miss, as it was and is, the greatest and most glorious day for all the world! What an awesome loving Savior Jesus is! I can almost experience the glorious moment of that event, just writing this passage.
This disciple (Judas) was the same disciple who gave all the detailed information, that John Zebedee and the other disciples testified to the veracity and accuracy of this disciple's testimony; as John Zebedee declared, “We know that “his” (Judas) testimony is true” (Jn 21:24). John furthermore declared that this particular disciple (disciple whom Jesus loved) did not only testify of what he saw, but also recorded everything that took place inside and outside the Palace (only Judas had the privilege to freely go in and out of the palace and the temple). Judas wrote the sequence of events that happened before, during and after the crucifixion of Jesus. All the information that were gathered by John and the other disciples came from the written testimony of Judas. He was the only eye witness among the disciples who can accurately give the full account of all the sufferings that Jesus went through (Jn 21:24); including his personal (Judas) testimony of how he threw down the thirty pieces of silver, 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 excerpt on, "When did Judas hang himself").
This was the same disciple (privileged and authorized, Lu.22:3-5; Jn.18:3) who stood at the foot of the cross ("and the disciple standing by, whom He loved" Jn. 19:26), 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 ("disciple whom He loved") said, “Behold thy mother”. The Bible says that this disciple (Judas) took Mary (earthly mother of Jesus) home, to his own house that very hour (Jn 19:26).
How can anyone completely understand that in final hours of Jesus on the cross, He displayed the true message and meaning of His sacrifice. His relentless love and forgiveness for all. Nevertheless, this has become a focal point of controversy why people have difficulty believing that Judas can be the "disciple whom Jesus loved". How in the world can Jesus still 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 true meaning of the Lord’s amazing love and grace for all sinners who repent (Jn 20:2; Jn 20:8; Matt 27:3,4; yet, who is able to judge?). Just like He did for you and I, and for everyone who will call on His name (Lu 23:42,43). A love that does not have any limitations nor boundaries.
No one can fully comprehend the measure of love that is in Christ Jesus. His love and forgiveness completely separates the sin from the sinner (upon receiving Jesus as your Savior); it is as if, the sin had never contaminated the person at all. Doesn't this amaze you? It is mind boggling to completely absorb this; yet, this is the kind of love, grace and mercy that Jesus offers to all who have sinned, great or small. Now the question is, will He ever trust you and I again, in-spite of all our continuous sins and mistakes? The answer is an amazing YES! In every sense of the word (Matt 18:21,22; La 3;21,22)! NOW, THIS IS TRUTH! He is our ever faithful intercessor. We are the very reason why Jesus offered to died on the cross at Calvary; He is our absolute guaranteed deliverance and no one else! We cannot even depend on what our own heart and mind dictates.
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. The verses in John 19:26,27 may not seem so significant at first glance, until you realize whom the Lord entrusted 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 standards of Jesus. His grace and His mercy overflows to Eternal Life. This is what His unconditional love is all about.
“…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 and came to the tomb first (why?). The Bible described that this disciple (whom Jesus Loved, Jn 20:2) who got there first, just stooped over to look in, but hesitated to go inside (I find no reason why he had to outran Peter then, unless of course, due to his apprehensive state of mind); Peter on the other hand, arriving after him went straight inside the tomb (as any normal disciple would). Only then, did this other disciple gathered up some courage to enter the tomb as well. 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 was referred to as, “the other Disciple”, identified also as, “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 singled 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 writers personal disclosure) instead of using the word "they", which should have included Peter. But this is where our power of understanding and revelation are challenged to see the truth.
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 indeed rose from the grave (what an emotional trauma this disciple must have felt). This "hesitant" disciple was not John Zebedee at all (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 "whom Jesus loved", than the missing body of Jesus Christ. It does not take too much to connect this anonymous disciple to Judas. Why didn't the writer just named this mysterious disciple by his proper name?
This question and a lot more very interesting nuggets are answered in the other chapters of my book "Whom Jesus Really Loved". There are so much more that the Lord revealed that is proven in the Scriptures and how they apply in our daily walk with Jesus.
The Bible also identified, that this disciple (whom Jesus loved) was the same disciple who recognized Jesus first, at the time when Jesus stood on the shore and called out to His disciples, after His resurrection. Peter and the rest of the disciples were fishing that time in their boats. The Bible declared that none of the disciples knew (“knew not that it was Jesus” Jn 21:4); maybe because none of the other disciples were guilt-ridden and apprehensively expecting, except for the distressed disciple named Judas Iscariot ("that disciple whom Jesus loved", Jn 21:7), who saw the tomb empty and knew in his heart that the Lord Jesus really rose from the dead (Jn 20:8) and will soon show Himself and appear before them face to face once again. Therefore in his anxiousness, he knew and sensed in his heart even from a distance that it was the Lord Jesus, just as he was nervously expecting Jesus to show up any time soon; and being the first one to recognize the Lord, he 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 indicate several other instances where Judas was used by the Lord to be His chosen disciple to fulfill His glorious plan for our salvation. The Lord's intent was never to condemn or put Judas to shame; but to show the different ways how God determines the destiny and the calling of His people.
"...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 to be discovered. The Lord has sent the Holy Spirit to guide us and help us understand the calling and purpose for each one of us; and though time and time again, we may miss His gentle voice, going on our own ways. And at times, we may feel lost hopeless and forsaken (even condemned and guilty like Judas), nevertheless, He never really left us; not even for a moment, nor will He ever forsake us.....ever! He loves us, with an everlasting passion, He is zealous for you.
If we can truly find the promised inheritance within us, then we have truly discovered the treasure of our true purpose and the unparalleled meaning of our existence, according to God's will.
There are so much more nuggets from my book, "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved". Find more awesome declaration of truth, love, hope and its timely application to our present situation. Every claim and exegesis were inspired by the Lord's revelation 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 peoples' traditional mind-set; but making people receive and accept that there is a love that is beyond what our minds and our hearts can contain and greater than any sin that exists is almost impossible!
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 work of Christ Jesus.
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 declaration of His everlasting 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. No one can truly claim to have known the Lord’s heart until you discover the hidden truth behind the phrases, “disciple whom Jesus loved” , or "whom Jesus loved" (mentioned in Jn 13:23; 19:26; 20:2; 21:7; 21:20), also known as the disciple who "leaned on His breast at supper" (Jn 21:20). Find out how John Zebedee revealed the real Jesus, when he unmasked Judas as the true “Disciple Whom Jesus Loved” buried in the Book of John for ages.
The book "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved" has the answers to one of the most significant yet unresolved mysteries in the Gospels that had been shrouded for centuries by an old adulterated religious doctrine. The revelation of the hidden truth in the Book of John is one of the greatest awakening that shows how Jesus had hand picked each one of us to be a disciple with a purpose; a chosen generation whom He had preordained to govern and live through His supernatural calling that is within us, for His glory.
You will be transformed and renewed in your perception of who you 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 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 overcame everything that was intended for our defeat and destruction!
An excerpt from the Book:
"Whom Jesus "Really" Loved"
By Dr. Gary Pangan
The Parable (Chapter 2 0f 36):
"There was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved".
(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 parable of the mysterious disciple in the Book of John starts in the thirteenth chapter of his book. This is where the writer first started using the phrase, "whom Jesus loved” (Jn 13:23), and the disciple who leaned on Jesus' bosom (Jn.13:23, Jn. 21:20 ). These terms were used synonymously to address one specific disciple, whose name remained anonymous throughout the entire Book of John. And although the writer used the phrases "disciple whom Jesus loved" or "whom Jesus loved" several times in the Book of John (Jn 13:23; 19:26; 20:2; 21:7; 21:20) within the last nine chapters, these phrases were never mentioned again. The ever pressing questions are, why did John Zebedee (the assumed sole writer of the Book of John) keep the name of the "mysterious disciple" a secret, and why didn't he use his own name (if he truly was the mysterious disciple) or mention any of theses phrases again 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 Zebedee was truly the disciple behind these mysterious phrases, it would just be normal to expect and see these phrases again; at least even once in 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 they ever mentioned, except in the Book of John (the complete study and personal applications are found in the other chapters of my Book "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved").
One of the many biblical reasons why the writer used the phrases “disciple whom Jesus loved” or "whom Jesus loved" (and other idioms) were to disguise and conceal (well documented in my book) the true identity of the eye witness who co-wrote (or contributed) some parts in 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 Gospels; and because of controversies, majority of the teachers of the word lost their enthusiasm in their Spiritual pursuit to unveil the true meaning of the mystery. Therefore, majority of the readers of the Book of John, just surrendered 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 cliché that labeled John as, "John the beloved"; and over the years, it just turned into a theological embodiment. A completely misguided hermeneutics (interpretation) of the Scriptures, denying Jesus of His glorious attributes and the inherent truth in the kingdom of God. It is absurd for the teachers of the word, filled with the wisdom of the Holy Spirit to casually sweep this thunderous message of the Lord under the rug of traditional ignorance to spoon feed the people with an erroneous unenlightened religious teaching, without any recourse for truth and insight.
Exhaustive research with the wisdom and revelation by the Holy Spirit will reveal the truth hidden in the mystery of the "disciple whom Jesus loved". Therefore, I pray that our Spiritual eyes would finally be opened to see the truth and rightfully divide the word of God; as we reach out to the lost and truly set the captives free; declaring the unsurpassed love of Jesus to all who have sinned and fallen; to them who are in distress drowning in sorrow, and for the ones' who need to be lifted up from the ashes of grief and the gates of hell.
Each one of us has a purpose, great or small; the Lord knowing all things predestined His called and chosen disciples (Eph 1:3-8) to be a part of His mission and purpose, which is "to save that which was lost" (Matt 18:11 KJV). The power of the cross is denied of its completion without fully declaring the boundless grace, mercy and love of Jesus. The power of His blood is greater than the darkest epitome of wickedness and sin that you, I, Judas and everyone else combined has ever or will ever commit (except for the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit). There is no greater love and forgiveness than what Jesus had accomplished on the cross at Calvary (Ro. 8:35-39, Heb.10:10, Col. 2:14,15)!
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 this anonymous disciple as “other Disciple" in another chapter of the book (Jn 18:16, which was similarly used in Jn 20:2,8 "other disciple, whom Jesus loved"), the writer also immediately made a distinction and identified the "other disciple" as, “disciple known to the high priest” (Greek word for high priest= "archiereus" with Strong's # G746 and G2409, meaning chief priest). Judas was the only disciple among the twelve who is well known to the chief priests, high priest, pharisees and the elders because of their agreement to betray Jesus (Matt. 26:14; Mk. 14:10,43; Lu. 22:3,4; Jn. 18:3). Not only did Judas know the high priest, but he was 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. This is only one of the many reasons why John Zebedee cannot be considered as the "disciple whom Jesus loved"; he was never mentioned to have known nor have any relations with any of the priests, and so does with the other disciples; therefore, none of them can be considered to be the disciple "whom Jesus loved" either.
Lazarus, Mary Magdalene, the earthly mother of Jesus Mary or any of the other followers outside the twelve apostles are all eliminated in the process as well, based on the Scripture in Matt 26:19-21. Not only were they not present at the Passover supper with Jesus, but none of them knew the high priest either.
" 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)
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; as 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 beloved followers to miss, as it was and is, the greatest and most glorious day for all the world! What an awesome loving Savior Jesus is! I can almost experience the glorious moment of that event, just writing this passage.
This disciple (Judas) was the same disciple who gave all the detailed information, that John Zebedee and the other disciples testified to the veracity and accuracy of this disciple's testimony; as John Zebedee declared, “We know that “his” (Judas) testimony is true” (Jn 21:24). John furthermore declared that this particular disciple (disciple whom Jesus loved) did not only testify of what he saw, but also recorded everything that took place inside and outside the Palace (only Judas had the privilege to freely go in and out of the palace and the temple). Judas wrote the sequence of events that happened before, during and after the crucifixion of Jesus. All the information that were gathered by John and the other disciples came from the written testimony of Judas. He was the only eye witness among the disciples who can accurately give the full account of all the sufferings that Jesus went through (Jn 21:24); including his personal (Judas) testimony of how he threw down the thirty pieces of silver, 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 excerpt on, "When did Judas hang himself").
This was the same disciple (privileged and authorized, Lu.22:3-5; Jn.18:3) who stood at the foot of the cross ("and the disciple standing by, whom He loved" Jn. 19:26), 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 ("disciple whom He loved") said, “Behold thy mother”. The Bible says that this disciple (Judas) took Mary (earthly mother of Jesus) home, to his own house that very hour (Jn 19:26).
How can anyone completely understand that in final hours of Jesus on the cross, He displayed the true message and meaning of His sacrifice. His relentless love and forgiveness for all. Nevertheless, this has become a focal point of controversy why people have difficulty believing that Judas can be the "disciple whom Jesus loved". How in the world can Jesus still 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 true meaning of the Lord’s amazing love and grace for all sinners who repent (Jn 20:2; Jn 20:8; Matt 27:3,4; yet, who is able to judge?). Just like He did for you and I, and for everyone who will call on His name (Lu 23:42,43). A love that does not have any limitations nor boundaries.
No one can fully comprehend the measure of love that is in Christ Jesus. His love and forgiveness completely separates the sin from the sinner (upon receiving Jesus as your Savior); it is as if, the sin had never contaminated the person at all. Doesn't this amaze you? It is mind boggling to completely absorb this; yet, this is the kind of love, grace and mercy that Jesus offers to all who have sinned, great or small. Now the question is, will He ever trust you and I again, in-spite of all our continuous sins and mistakes? The answer is an amazing YES! In every sense of the word (Matt 18:21,22; La 3;21,22)! NOW, THIS IS TRUTH! He is our ever faithful intercessor. We are the very reason why Jesus offered to died on the cross at Calvary; He is our absolute guaranteed deliverance and no one else! We cannot even depend on what our own heart and mind dictates.
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. The verses in John 19:26,27 may not seem so significant at first glance, until you realize whom the Lord entrusted 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 standards of Jesus. His grace and His mercy overflows to Eternal Life. This is what His unconditional love is all about.
“…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 and came to the tomb first (why?). The Bible described that this disciple (whom Jesus Loved, Jn 20:2) who got there first, just stooped over to look in, but hesitated to go inside (I find no reason why he had to outran Peter then, unless of course, due to his apprehensive state of mind); Peter on the other hand, arriving after him went straight inside the tomb (as any normal disciple would). Only then, did this other disciple gathered up some courage to enter the tomb as well. 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 was referred to as, “the other Disciple”, identified also as, “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 singled 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 writers personal disclosure) instead of using the word "they", which should have included Peter. But this is where our power of understanding and revelation are challenged to see the truth.
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 indeed rose from the grave (what an emotional trauma this disciple must have felt). This "hesitant" disciple was not John Zebedee at all (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 "whom Jesus loved", than the missing body of Jesus Christ. It does not take too much to connect this anonymous disciple to Judas. Why didn't the writer just named this mysterious disciple by his proper name?
This question and a lot more very interesting nuggets are answered in the other chapters of my book "Whom Jesus Really Loved". There are so much more that the Lord revealed that is proven in the Scriptures and how they apply in our daily walk with Jesus.
The Bible also identified, that this disciple (whom Jesus loved) was the same disciple who recognized Jesus first, at the time when Jesus stood on the shore and called out to His disciples, after His resurrection. Peter and the rest of the disciples were fishing that time in their boats. The Bible declared that none of the disciples knew (“knew not that it was Jesus” Jn 21:4); maybe because none of the other disciples were guilt-ridden and apprehensively expecting, except for the distressed disciple named Judas Iscariot ("that disciple whom Jesus loved", Jn 21:7), who saw the tomb empty and knew in his heart that the Lord Jesus really rose from the dead (Jn 20:8) and will soon show Himself and appear before them face to face once again. Therefore in his anxiousness, he knew and sensed in his heart even from a distance that it was the Lord Jesus, just as he was nervously expecting Jesus to show up any time soon; and being the first one to recognize the Lord, he 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 indicate several other instances where Judas was used by the Lord to be His chosen disciple to fulfill His glorious plan for our salvation. The Lord's intent was never to condemn or put Judas to shame; but to show the different ways how God determines the destiny and the calling of His people.
"...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 to be discovered. The Lord has sent the Holy Spirit to guide us and help us understand the calling and purpose for each one of us; and though time and time again, we may miss His gentle voice, going on our own ways. And at times, we may feel lost hopeless and forsaken (even condemned and guilty like Judas), nevertheless, He never really left us; not even for a moment, nor will He ever forsake us.....ever! He loves us, with an everlasting passion, He is zealous for you.
If we can truly find the promised inheritance within us, then we have truly discovered the treasure of our true purpose and the unparalleled meaning of our existence, according to God's will.
There are so much more nuggets from my book, "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved". Find more awesome declaration of truth, love, hope and its timely application to our present situation. Every claim and exegesis were inspired by the Lord's revelation 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 peoples' traditional mind-set; but making people receive and accept that there is a love that is beyond what our minds and our hearts can contain and greater than any sin that exists is almost impossible!
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 work of Christ Jesus.
Dr. Gary Pangan
Evangelist, Preacher, Teacher, Author
Email: GARYPANGAN@AOL.COM
The book "Whom Jesus "Really" Loved" is available at all B&n.com, Amazon.com and most Booksellers.
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