John
Pronounced JON
- Meaning
- "God is gracious"
- Origin
- Hebrew (Yohanan)
John comes from the Hebrew name Yohanan, meaning "God is gracious" or "God has shown favor." It is one of the most enduring names in Christian history, carried by two of the most important figures in the New Testament. John the Baptist was the forerunner of Christ, called to prepare the way for the Messiah. His bold preaching of repentance and his baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River mark pivotal moments in the Gospels. John the Apostle, known as "the disciple whom Jesus loved," authored the Gospel of John, three epistles, and the Book of Revelation. The name John has been borne by countless saints, popes, and leaders throughout church history, making it one of the most popular Christian names across all cultures and centuries.
Spiritual meaning
The name John declares that God is gracious — a truth at the very heart of the Gospel. It reminds us that salvation is not earned but freely given through God's unmerited favor.
Related verses (KJV)
"But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John."
Luke 1:13 (KJV)
"Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved."
John 13:23 (KJV)