Why is Lazarus the beloved disciple?

Or, it is the other way around: Jesus is close with Mary and Martha because of his friendship with Lazarus! Regardless, the Gospels offer subtle clues to the mystery of the beloved disciple’s identity. Lazarus’ story, family relationships, and Jesus’ love of him makes Lazarus a fitting choice as the beloved disciple.

Did Lazarus have a wife?

Together with her siblings Lazarus and Martha, she is described by John as living in the village of Bethany, a small village in Judaea to the south of the Mount of Olives near Jerusalem….Mary of Bethany.

Who was Lazarus in the Bible before his death?

Women followed Jesus into Jerusalem (Luke 23:49) If Mary was was near Jesus before his death then it is plausible to believe Lazarus was there as the beloved disciple. If Lazarus was to be killed with Jesus according to John 12:10, then it was smart for the writer of John to name Lazarus as the disciple whom Jesus loved.

Why was Lazarus not part of the inner group of disciples?

Since the oral tradition was circulated among early believers it would have been advantageous not to name Lazarus as part of the inner group of disciples. Lazarus holds a greater role in the life of Jesus than you might think.

Who is the Beloved Disciple in the Bible?

The identity of the “beloved disciple” or the one John calls “disciple whom Jesus loved” is unnamed and has remained a mystery. Irenaeus and Eusebius both identified the beloved disciple as John as early as the second and fourth century respectively.

What does it mean that Jesus loved the disciple whom he loved?

The mentioning of the disciple “whom Jesus loved” is used only after the raising of Lazarus in the Book of John. The love that is mentioned in John’s Gospel regarding Lazarus and the Beloved Disciple is phileo – a deep affection, a love of a dear friend, or a brotherly love.