Biblical Time Machine Did the Beloved Disciple Exist?
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Jan 5, 2026 Hugo Méndez, an Associate Professor of Religious Studies and author specializing in Johannine literature, challenges the traditional views of the beloved disciple in the Gospel of John. He suggests that this figure might be a fictional literary creation rather than a historical person. The discussion delves into the dating of the Gospel, the concept of disguised authorship, and how ancient texts were circulated. Méndez also critiques John's value for historical Jesus research while highlighting its theological insights and innovative narrative techniques.
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Beloved Disciple As Literary Creation
- Hugo Méndez argues the Gospel of John likely uses a fictional ‘beloved disciple’ as a literary eyewitness to boost credibility.
- He sees John and the Johannine letters as a chain of falsely authored works rather than authentic community documents.
Idealization Suggests Invention
- Méndez highlights the beloved disciple's idealized role across key scenes as evidence against historicity.
- He calls this pattern the 'Forrest Gump effect' of always appearing in pivotal moments.
Pseudepigraphy Was Widespread
- Pseudepigraphy was common in ancient Jewish and Christian writing and served many purposes beyond deceit.
- Méndez prefers neutral terms like 'falsely authored' or 'disguised authorship' over morally loaded words.
