The Transforming Power of Christ

Of the twelve disciples, four were to act a leading part, each in a distinct way. In preparation for this, Christ taught them, foreseeing all: James, destined to swift death by the sword; John, who followed his Master the longest in labor and persecution; Peter, the pioneer in teaching the heathen world; and Judas, in service more capable than his associates, yet brooding in his soul—these were the objects of Christ’s greatest solicitude and the ones who received His most frequent and careful instruction.TEd 53.4

Peter, James, and John sought every opportunity to come into close contact with their Master, and their desire was granted. Of all the Twelve their relationship to Him was closest. John could be satisfied only with a still closer intimacy, and this he obtained. At that first conference beside the Jordan, when Andrew, having heard Jesus, hurried away to call his brother, John sat silent, rapt in the contemplation of wondrous themes. He followed the Savior, ever an eager, absorbed listener.TEd 54.1

Yet John’s character was not faultless. He and his brother were called “Sons of thunder.” Mark 3:17. John was proud, ambitious, and combative, but beneath all this the divine Teacher discerned a sincere, loving heart. Jesus rebuked his self-seeking, disappointed his ambitions, and tested his faith, but He revealed to him that for which his soul longed—the beauty of holiness, His own transforming love. To His Father He said, “I have made Your name known to those whom You gave Me from the world.” John 17:6, NRSV.TEd 54.2

John’s was a nature that longed for love, sympathy, and companionship. As a flower drinks in the sun and dew, so he drank in the divine light and life. In adoration and love he beheld the Savior, until his character reflected the character of his Master. “Behold,” he said, “what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God.” 1 John 3:1.TEd 54.3