New Testament
John 13:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
One of his disciples, the one whom Jesus loved, was reclining close to Jesus.
Compare translations
Now there was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved.
What John 13:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a close and intimate moment between Jesus and one of his disciples, often identified as John. The phrase 'the one whom Jesus loved' highlights the special relationship and affection Jesus had for John. Reclining close to Jesus signifies not just physical proximity but also a deep spiritual connection. In the context of the Last Supper, this moment emphasizes the importance of love and friendship in the life of Jesus and his followers. It illustrates the idea that being close to Jesus involves trust and a personal relationship. This scene sets the stage for the teachings and events that follow, showcasing the bond between Jesus and his disciples, and the love that should characterize their community. It reminds us that Jesus desires a close relationship with each of us, inviting us to lean on Him in our lives.
How to apply John 13:23 to your life
This verse encourages us to cultivate a close relationship with Jesus, just as John did. We can lean on Him in our daily lives, trusting in His love and guidance. By fostering intimacy with Christ, we can strengthen our faith and deepen our understanding of His teachings.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Washing the Disciples' Feet (John 13:1–30)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about John 13:23
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying John 13:23
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
Who is the disciple referred to as 'the one whom Jesus loved'?
The disciple referred to as 'the one whom Jesus loved' is traditionally identified as John, the author of the Gospel of John. This designation highlights the special bond and affection that Jesus had for him, illustrating the deep personal relationships that Jesus cultivated with his followers.
How can we apply the message of this verse to our lives today?
This verse encourages us to seek a close relationship with Jesus, similar to that of John. We can lean on Him for guidance and support in our daily lives, fostering intimacy through prayer, reading Scripture, and community with other believers. By doing so, we strengthen our faith and deepen our understanding of His love.
What themes are highlighted in John 13:23?
John 13:23 highlights several key themes, including intimacy with Jesus, discipleship, love, friendship, and spiritual closeness. These themes remind us of the importance of nurturing our relationship with Christ and embodying love within our community of faith.
Why is the relationship between Jesus and His disciples important?
The relationship between Jesus and His disciples is crucial as it exemplifies the model of love, trust, and community that Jesus desires for all believers. It shows that following Jesus involves not just belief but also a personal, intimate connection that transforms lives and fosters a supportive community.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.