Who Was the Beloved Disciple? A Progressive Reflection

The Gospel of John has captivated readers for centuries, especially with the mystery surrounding the “Beloved Disciple.” In a thought-provoking article, Peter E. Lewis offers a fresh perspective, suggesting that the Beloved Disciple might not be John, the son of Zebedee, but Lazarus. This interpretation challenges traditional views and invites us to consider a deeper, more intimate bond between Jesus and Lazarus.

Lewis explores the Greek words for love—phileo (affectionate love) and agapao (selfless love)—and how they’re used in John’s Gospel to describe Jesus’s relationship with Lazarus, Mary, and Martha. He even raises the possibility of a queer reading of the Beloved Disciple, sparking important conversations about love, inclusion, and the radical message of the Gospel.

Lazarus’s resurrection is also reimagined as a metaphor for transformation—perhaps even a “coming out” moment—calling us to embrace authenticity and live in the light of Christ’s love. This perspective resonates deeply with progressive Christians, reminding us of the Gospel’s call to radical inclusion and affirmation.

To dive deeper into these thought-provoking ideas, read Peter E. Lewis’s full article, Who is the Beloved Disciple in John’s Gospel?, and Shane St Reynolds’s reflection on ProgressiveChristianity.org.