Who is God's Favorite Apostle? Exploring Divine Preference and Divine Love

The question of "Who is God's favorite apostle?" is one that has likely crossed the minds of many believers at some point. It’s a natural human inclination to wonder about favoritism, especially when we think about the close circle of followers Jesus gathered around himself. For me, this question arose during a particularly challenging period in my own faith journey, where I felt overlooked and insignificant. I was wrestling with the idea that perhaps some people, by virtue of their proximity to Jesus or their perceived spiritual gifts, were somehow held in higher esteem by the divine. It's a complex question, and one that doesn't lend itself to a simple, definitive answer. Rather, exploring it offers a profound opportunity to understand God’s nature, the purpose of discipleship, and the expansive nature of divine love. So, who is God's favorite apostle? From a theological perspective, the concept of God having a "favorite" in the human sense—a preference for one individual over others—doesn't align with the overarching message of Christian scripture. Instead, we find a God who loves all of humanity, and by extension, all of His devoted followers, unconditionally and equally.

Understanding the Twelve Apostles: A Foundation for Exploration

Before diving deeper into the nuances of divine preference, it's crucial to establish who the twelve apostles were and their significance within the Christian narrative. Jesus chose these men specifically to be his closest companions, to learn directly from him, and to carry on his ministry after his ascension. They weren't chosen for their perfection, but rather for their availability, their willingness to learn, and their diverse human qualities. Each of them brought something unique to the group, and each had their own strengths and weaknesses, which are often highlighted in the Gospels.

Key Figures Among the Twelve

While Jesus had many followers, the core group of twelve, sometimes referred to as the "inner circle," held a special place. These individuals were witnesses to his miracles, his teachings, and his ultimate sacrifice. Let’s briefly consider some of the most prominent figures and their roles:

Simon Peter: Often seen as the natural leader of the apostles, Peter was known for his impetuous nature, his deep devotion, and his occasional blunders. He was the one who confessed Jesus as the Christ and was present at key moments, such as the Transfiguration.
John the Beloved: Frequently described as the "disciple whom Jesus loved," John was present at the crucifixion and was entrusted with Jesus' mother, Mary. His Gospel, letters, and the Book of Revelation offer profound theological insights.
James, Son of Zebedee: John's brother, James was also part of Jesus' inner circle and was the first apostle to be martyred, as recorded in the Book of Acts.
Judas Iscariot: The apostle who ultimately betrayed Jesus. His story serves as a tragic counterpoint, reminding us that even those closest to Jesus could fall.
Thomas: Known for his doubt, Thomas famously required tangible proof of Jesus' resurrection. His eventual declaration, "My Lord and my God!" is a powerful testament to his faith.
Andrew: Peter's brother, Andrew was the one who initially brought Peter to Jesus. He often played a role in bringing others to Christ.
Matthew (Levi): A former tax collector, Matthew's Gospel focuses on Jesus as the Messiah fulfilling Old Testament prophecies. His calling demonstrates Jesus' willingness to embrace those marginalized by society.
James, Son of Alphaeus: Another apostle named James, often distinguished from James, son of Zebedee.
Simon the Zealot: A former member of a radical political movement, Simon’s inclusion highlights Jesus’ radical message of inclusivity.
Thaddaeus (Judas, son of James): Mentioned in various Gospel lists, his specific role is less detailed but he was undoubtedly a vital part of the group.
Bartholomew (Nathanael): Often identified with Nathanael, Bartholomew is portrayed as an Israelite without guile.
Judas Iscariot: (Already mentioned, but for completeness in the list of twelve)

This diverse group, each with their unique personalities and backgrounds, was tasked with an extraordinary mission. Their interactions, their learning, and their eventual ministries provide us with rich material for understanding Jesus’ teachings and the early Christian church.

Deconstructing "Favorite": Divine Love vs. Human Preference

The word "favorite" carries connotations of partiality, of choosing one over others based on merit, charm, or some other distinguishing characteristic. This is how we often perceive favoritism in human relationships. However, when we consider God, particularly the God revealed in Christianity, the concept shifts dramatically. Theologians and biblical scholars generally agree that God's love is not like human love, which can be exclusive or conditional. Instead, divine love is often described as:

Unconditional: God's love is not dependent on our actions or worthiness. It is an inherent attribute of God’s being.
Universal: God's love extends to all creation, and particularly to all who seek Him.
Transformative: Divine love has the power to change individuals and the world.

Therefore, when we ask "Who is God's favorite apostle?", we are likely projecting a human understanding of favoritism onto a divine being whose nature transcends such limitations. It's more accurate to ask, "Which apostles were particularly favored by Jesus, and in what ways?" or "How did Jesus demonstrate his love and guidance to his apostles?"

Biblical Clues and Interpretations

The Gospels do provide instances where Jesus seems to have a closer relationship or entrusts certain tasks to specific apostles. This is often misinterpreted as favoritism. However, these instances can be understood as:

Jesus’ Intimacy and Training: Jesus intentionally spent more time with the twelve, providing them with specialized training and deeper revelation. This was for their development and the fulfillment of their mission, not because he loved them more than other followers.
Specific Roles and Responsibilities: Certain apostles were given specific roles or were present at pivotal moments. For example, Peter, James, and John often accompanied Jesus during significant events like the Transfiguration and his agony in the Garden of Gethsemane. This doesn't necessarily imply they were "more loved" but perhaps that their role in the broader narrative required them to witness and experience these crucial moments firsthand.
Gifts and Callings: Each apostle, like every believer, was endowed with unique gifts and called to specific ministries. Paul, for instance, discusses spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12, emphasizing that while gifts differ, they all come from the same Spirit and serve the same body.

My own journey with this question has led me to believe that Jesus' "favorites" were likely those who responded most readily to his love, who demonstrated a willingness to grow, and who were open to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. It wasn't about a pre-ordained hierarchy of affection, but about the dynamic relationship between the Master and his disciples.

Peter: The Confessor and the Rock?

Simon Peter is perhaps the apostle most often considered a "favorite" due to his prominent role in the New Testament. Jesus gave him the name Peter, meaning "rock," and declared, "On this rock I will build my church" (Matthew 16:18). This declaration, coupled with Peter's frequent leadership within the apostolic band, has led some to believe he held a special, perhaps even primary, position.

Peter's Strengths and Weaknesses

Peter's devotion was undeniable. He was the first to boldly declare Jesus as the Messiah. He walked on water (albeit briefly before sinking). He defended Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, even cutting off a servant's ear. These actions showcase his passionate, albeit sometimes misguided, loyalty. However, Peter also famously denied Jesus three times, a profound moment of weakness and failure. Yet, Jesus did not abandon him. After the resurrection, Jesus specifically sought Peter out, restored him ("Do you love me? Feed my sheep"), and commissioned him to lead the church. This act of restoration and renewed commission is a powerful demonstration of unconditional love and forgiveness, rather than a reward for being a "favorite."

From my perspective, Peter’s story is less about being God's "favorite" and more about being a prime example of how God can use flawed, imperfect individuals. His failures made him more relatable and his restoration a testament to the boundless grace available to all believers. He became the "rock" not because he was sinless or perfect, but because he ultimately anchored his faith in Jesus and was willing to be molded by the Holy Spirit, despite his human frailties.

John: The Beloved Disciple and the Theologian

John, the son of Zebedee, is another strong contender in discussions about who might have been a "favorite." He is consistently identified as the "disciple whom Jesus loved." This phrase appears multiple times in John's Gospel, notably at the Last Supper, where he leaned on Jesus' breast, and at the foot of the cross, where Jesus entrusted him with the care of his mother.

The Significance of "Beloved"

What does it mean to be the "disciple whom Jesus loved"? Some interpret this as indicating a unique intimacy and favor. However, it can also be understood in several other ways:

A Reflection of God’s Love: Perhaps John’s Gospel uses this phrase to highlight the nature of divine love itself—a love that cherishes, protects, and entrusts. John, as the author, might be using his own experience to illustrate this universal truth.
A Role of Witness: John was clearly a trusted confidant. His presence at the crucifixion and his commission to care for Mary suggest a deep level of trust and responsibility. This implies a special relationship, but not necessarily one of exclusive divine preference.
John’s Own Humility: It's also possible that John, in his humility, refers to himself in this way, emphasizing his personal connection to Jesus without claiming superiority over the other apostles.

John's writings—his Gospel, his letters, and the Book of Revelation—are profoundly theological. His Gospel emphasizes Jesus' divine nature, his pre-existence, and his role as the Word of God. The epistles speak of God as light and love, and Revelation offers a powerful vision of God's ultimate triumph. This deep theological understanding, coupled with his intimate closeness to Jesus, makes him a significant figure. Yet, again, it's about his unique spiritual gifts and his capacity to receive and articulate profound truths, rather than a predetermined favoritism.

I've always found John's portrayal to be incredibly inspiring. His ability to remain steadfast at the cross, to care for Mary, and to later articulate such profound theological truths suggests a profound inner strength and a deep wellspring of faith. It's a reminder that even in moments of immense suffering and loss, love and mission can endure.

Other Apostles: Their Contributions and Significance

While Peter and John often take center stage, it's vital to remember that all twelve apostles were chosen by Jesus for a reason. Each played a crucial role in the early church and contributed to the spread of the Gospel.

The Diversity of Gifts and Ministries

James, Son of Zebedee: Though martyred early, his initial presence and eventual martyrdom underscore the sacrifices required of disciples.
Andrew: Often depicted as the one who brings others to Jesus, highlighting the importance of evangelism and outreach.
Thomas: His journey from doubt to firm belief is a powerful witness for those who struggle with faith.
Matthew: His conversion from a tax collector, a profession despised by many Jews, demonstrates Jesus' mission to reach out to the marginalized and show that no one is beyond redemption.
Simon the Zealot and Judas Thaddaeus: Their inclusion represents the broad spectrum of society that Jesus called into his service, demonstrating his radical inclusivity.

The fact that Jesus chose such a diverse group—fishermen, a tax collector, a zealot—suggests that he valued different perspectives and talents. This diversity was not a weakness but a strength for the nascent church. It’s as if Jesus was saying, "I can use anyone who is willing to surrender to me and serve my purposes."

I believe that the Lord intentionally orchestrated this diversity. It’s a beautiful illustration of how the Body of Christ is meant to function, with each member having different gifts and roles, all essential for the whole. To focus on one as a "favorite" would be to miss the richness and completeness of his design.

Jesus' Own Words and Teachings on Love and Favoritism

What did Jesus himself say about love, favoritism, and his relationship with his disciples? His teachings consistently point towards a love that is inclusive and transformative, rather than preferential.

Key Teachings to Consider

The Great Commandment: Jesus summarized the law as loving God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and loving your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:36-40). This command is for everyone, not just a select few.
Parable of the Sower: This parable (Matthew 13:1-23) illustrates that different people receive God's word in different ways, and the outcome depends on the soil of their hearts, not on pre-determined favoritism.
The Lord's Prayer: "Our Father..." This prayer emphasizes a communal relationship with God and a petition for daily needs, applicable to all believers.
Jesus' Prayers for His Disciples: In John 17, Jesus prays not just for the eleven, but "also for those who will believe in me through their word." This is a prayer of universal love and unity for all his followers.
Teaching on Service: Jesus repeatedly taught that greatness in the Kingdom of God is measured by service, not by status or perceived favoritism (Mark 10:42-45).

These teachings strongly suggest that Jesus’ intention was to foster a community of love and service where everyone felt valued and empowered by God. The concept of a single "favorite" apostle would seem to contradict the essence of these teachings.

I recall a moment during a Bible study where we were discussing the idea of spiritual gifts. Someone expressed frustration, feeling like they didn't have any "exciting" gifts. My own reflection, and what I shared with the group, was that God's love isn't distributed based on the flashiness of a gift. It’s about faithfulness and utilizing the gifts we’ve been given, no matter how small they may seem. This is precisely how I see Jesus treating his apostles—valuing their unique contributions and calling them to serve faithfully.

The Purpose of the Twelve: A Mission, Not a Hierarchy of Affection

Jesus didn't choose the twelve apostles to create a popularity contest or to establish a hierarchy of divine affection. He chose them for a specific, monumental purpose: to be his witnesses, to be the foundation stones of his Church, and to carry his message to the ends of the earth.

Their Commission and Legacy

Their commission is vividly described in the Gospels and in the early chapters of Acts. They were empowered by the Holy Spirit to perform miracles, to teach, to heal, and ultimately, to spread the Gospel. Their lives were dedicated to this mission, often at great personal cost, including persecution and martyrdom for many.

The New Testament epistles, particularly those written by Paul, further elaborate on the structure and functioning of the early church. While apostles are mentioned as foundational figures, the emphasis is on the unity of the body of Christ, where each part is essential and interconnected. This reinforces the idea that while there were specific roles (apostle, prophet, teacher, etc.), these were functional designations for building up the church, not indicators of varying degrees of divine love.

My own understanding of this mission is that it required each of the twelve to be deeply connected to Jesus. It required them to be receivers of his love and his power, so they could then transmit it to others. This depth of connection could be perceived as favoritism, but it was, in fact, a necessary equipping for their divine task.

The Role of the Holy Spirit in Empowering All Believers

A crucial element in understanding why God doesn't have a single "favorite" apostle is the role of the Holy Spirit. After Jesus' ascension, he sent the Holy Spirit to indwell all believers, empowering them with gifts and guiding them into truth.

The Spirit's Work Among Believers

The coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2) was a pivotal moment. It demonstrated that the power and presence of God were no longer limited to Jesus’ physical presence or to a select few. The Spirit was poured out upon all who believed, equipping them for service and fellowship.

This equalization through the Spirit means that every believer, regardless of their calling or spiritual gifts, has direct access to God and is empowered by the same divine power. While the apostles had a unique foundational role, the Holy Spirit’s work in the lives of ordinary believers today is just as profound and transformative.

I can personally attest to the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit. There have been times when I've felt inadequate for a task, only to experience a surge of wisdom, courage, or peace that could only be attributed to the Spirit’s presence. This universal empowerment is God’s way of ensuring that His love and power are accessible to everyone, not just a chosen few. It dismantles the very notion of a single "favorite."

What About the Future? (A Look at Revelation)

The Book of Revelation, attributed to the Apostle John, offers a glimpse into God's ultimate plan for humanity and the Church. While it speaks of the foundation of the New Jerusalem being laid on the foundation of the apostles and the twelve gates being named after the twelve tribes of Israel, it does not single out one apostle as supreme in God's affection.

Unity and Shared Glory

Revelation emphasizes the unity of believers in the New Jerusalem, where they will reign with Christ. The Lamb (Jesus) is at the center, and the glory of God illuminates the city. All the redeemed, united in Christ, share in this ultimate glory. The apostles are honored for their foundational role, but the focus is on the collective redeemed community and the glory of God.

This future perspective reinforces the idea that God's ultimate plan is one of universal redemption and eternal communion, not one based on hierarchical favoritism among His servants.

Personal Reflections and Modern Applications

The question "Who is God's favorite apostle?" can be a springboard for deep personal reflection on our own walk of faith. When I first grappled with this question, I was seeking a formula for divine approval. But the journey of exploring it has led me to a much richer understanding.

Here’s what I’ve come to believe:

God loves each apostle uniquely, as He loves each of us. This love isn't measured on a scale. It's an infinite ocean.
Jesus' interactions with the apostles highlight their individual callings and his desire to equip them. Peter's boldness, John's contemplation, Matthew's transformation—each was met by Jesus with purpose.
Our own desire to be "favored" by God might be a misinterpretation of our desire for deeper intimacy and purpose. We don't need to be a specific apostle to experience God's profound love and have our lives used mightily.

The modern-day application is profound. We don't need to envy Peter's leadership or John's intimacy. Instead, we can look at each apostle's life and ask:

How did they respond to Jesus' call?
What were their struggles, and how did Jesus help them overcome them?
What unique gifts did they bring to the table?
How can I apply these lessons to my own faith journey?

Perhaps the greatest "favor" God bestows is the opportunity to know Him, to be loved by Him, and to be empowered by His Spirit to live out His purposes. The apostles, in their unique ways, exemplified this. And so can we.

Frequently Asked Questions About God's Favorite Apostle

How can we truly know God's love without needing to be a "favorite"?

It’s a wonderful question, and the answer lies in understanding the nature of God’s love as presented in scripture. The Bible consistently portrays God’s love as unconditional and universal. This means it’s not something you earn or something that is limited to a select few. Think of it like the sun: it shines its light and warmth on everyone, regardless of whether they "deserve" it or not. In the same way, God’s love is a gift, freely given to all who open themselves to it. Jesus’ entire ministry was a demonstration of this love. His interactions with the sick, the sinners, the outcasts—all showed a God who actively seeks connection with humanity. The Apostle John writes in 1 John 4:8, "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." This implies that love is the very essence of God. Therefore, to know God is to know love, and His love is not a scarce commodity that He doles out selectively. It's an infinite ocean. You don't need to be the "favorite" to swim in it. You just need to step in.

The emphasis on Jesus’ sacrifice is also key. Theologians often describe atonement as a demonstration of God’s immense love for all humanity. Romans 5:8 states, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." This wasn't for the "favorites" but for "us"—all of humanity. This act of sacrifice is the ultimate proof that God’s love is inclusive and redemptive. To experience this love, one simply needs to accept it through faith in Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit, as mentioned earlier, is also a divine gift available to all believers, constantly reminding us of God's presence and love in our lives. This indwelling presence is the personal seal of God’s affection, making each believer His beloved. So, instead of seeking to be a "favorite," we can rest in the assurance that we are loved by our Creator, and that love is the foundation for all our spiritual experiences.

Why did Jesus spend more time with certain apostles, like Peter, James, and John? Was this favoritism?

Jesus’ focused time with Peter, James, and John was not favoritism in the sense of preferring them over others in his affection, but rather a strategic investment in their training and their role in bearing witness to key events. Think of it like a teacher who might spend extra time with a small group of students who are being groomed for leadership positions or who are involved in a particular project. Jesus had a specific mission, and he chose the twelve apostles to be his core team, his closest confidants, and the future leaders of his movement. Within that core team, he further invested in Peter, James, and John for specific reasons.

For instance, these three were present at the Transfiguration, a powerful revelation of Jesus' divine glory. They were also with him in the Garden of Gethsemane during his most intense agony before his crucifixion. These were momentous, deeply spiritual, and emotionally charged events. It’s reasonable to surmise that Jesus wanted these particular witnesses, perhaps because of their unique temperaments and their capacity to absorb and later testify to these profound experiences. Peter, as the impulsive leader, was being prepared for the arduous task of leading the early church. John, the "beloved disciple," was being positioned to receive deep theological insights and to care for Jesus' mother. James, though martyred early, was part of this inner circle. Their elevated presence at these events was more about equipping them for their future roles and ensuring they were witnesses to crucial turning points, rather than about Jesus loving them more.

Furthermore, Jesus was human as well as divine, and human relationships often involve different levels of intimacy. While God’s love is perfect and universal, Jesus, in his earthly ministry, formed close bonds with those who were with him most constantly. This closeness was a natural outcome of shared experience and Jesus’ intentional discipleship process. It was an investment in the future of his church, ensuring that these men were deeply formed and prepared for the monumental task ahead. Their subsequent ministries, as recorded in the New Testament, show the impact of this focused investment.

If God loves everyone equally, why does the Bible highlight certain apostles?

The Bible, as a narrative of God’s interaction with humanity, necessarily highlights individuals and events that are crucial to the unfolding of His plan. When the Bible highlights certain apostles, it's not necessarily to indicate divine favoritism, but to underscore their unique roles, their significant contributions, and their exemplary (or sometimes cautionary) experiences. For instance, Peter's confession of Jesus as the Christ is a pivotal moment in the Gospels, marking a crucial turning point in the disciples' understanding of who Jesus was. His subsequent denial and restoration also serve as a powerful testament to God's grace and forgiveness. These events are highlighted because they are foundational to Christian doctrine and offer profound lessons for all believers.

Similarly, John's role as the "beloved disciple" and the author of deeply theological writings allows the New Testament to convey profound truths about Jesus' divinity and the nature of God's love. His witness at the crucifixion and his commission to care for Mary are significant moments that reveal Jesus’ compassion and trust. The inclusion of figures like Matthew, the tax collector, also serves a vital purpose: demonstrating Jesus' mission to reach out to the marginalized and to show that transformation is possible for anyone who responds to his call. These stories are not meant to suggest that these individuals were inherently "more loved" by God, but that their lives and experiences were particularly instrumental in conveying essential truths about God, Christ, and the nature of discipleship.

Moreover, the narrative structure of the Bible often focuses on specific individuals or groups to illustrate broader themes. The stories of the twelve apostles, with their diverse backgrounds and experiences, collectively paint a rich picture of God’s kingdom. By focusing on certain apostles at specific junctures, the biblical authors are guiding the reader’s understanding of God’s work in history and the principles of faith and obedience. It's about illustrating the breadth of God's engagement with humanity and the diverse ways in which His people can be used in His service, rather than ranking individuals in order of divine affection. Each apostle, in his own way, fulfilled a unique and essential part of God's redemptive plan.

How can I apply the lessons from the apostles' lives to my own faith today, without feeling like I need to be "special"?

The beauty of the apostles' lives lies in their relatability and the universal truths they embody. You absolutely do not need to feel like you need to be "special" or singled out to draw profound inspiration and practical guidance from them. In fact, their very humanity, with all its flaws and triumphs, is what makes their stories so potent for us today. The core lessons from their lives are rooted in fundamental aspects of the Christian walk that are accessible to every believer.

Consider Peter. His impulsiveness, his moments of doubt, and his dramatic failures are deeply human. Yet, his unwavering loyalty and his eventual courage in proclaiming the Gospel after his restoration are powerful lessons in repentance, resilience, and the transformative power of forgiveness. We can learn from Peter that it’s okay to stumble, but it’s crucial to get back up, accept God’s grace, and continue following Jesus. His journey teaches us about the importance of faith even when it wavers, and the restoration that God offers to those who are sincere in their return.

Then there’s John. His deep intimacy with Jesus, his theological insights, and his endurance at the cross speak to the rewards of deep spiritual devotion and a life surrendered to God’s purposes. We can learn from John about the importance of seeking a profound understanding of God, cultivating a contemplative prayer life, and remaining steadfast in our love and commitment, even in the face of suffering. His emphasis on God as love and light offers a timeless perspective on the character of the divine and how we are called to live in relationship with Him and with others.

Even less prominent apostles offer valuable lessons. The fact that Jesus called a tax collector like Matthew demonstrates his inclusive mission and the potential for transformation in all lives, regardless of past. This teaches us about God’s impartiality and His desire to redeem and use everyone. Simon the Zealot’s inclusion reminds us that Jesus’ call transcends political or social divides, inviting individuals from all walks of life into His kingdom. This encourages us to be open to the diversity of people in our own communities and to see everyone through God's eyes.

Ultimately, the apostles’ lives are case studies in discipleship. They show us what it means to:

Respond to Jesus’ call, often leaving behind familiar lives.
Learn from His teachings and example.
Experience His power and presence.
Overcome doubt and fear.
Endure hardship and persecution for the sake of the Gospel.
Share their faith with others.

These are not extraordinary feats reserved for a select few. These are the fundamental challenges and opportunities presented to every follower of Christ. By studying their journeys, we are not meant to compare ourselves or aspire to be "favorites," but rather to find encouragement, wisdom, and practical guidance for our own journey of faith, knowing that the same God who called and empowered them is with us today, ready to equip us for whatever He has called us to do.

Conclusion: A Shared Inheritance in Divine Love

The question "Who is God's favorite apostle?" ultimately leads us not to a singular individual, but to a profound understanding of God’s expansive and inclusive love. The Bible does not present evidence for a hierarchical favoritism among the twelve. Instead, it showcases a God who calls, equips, and loves each of His followers uniquely, according to His divine purposes and their individual capacities to receive and respond to Him.

Jesus intentionally chose a diverse group of men, investing in them, training them, and empowering them with the Holy Spirit. While some, like Peter and John, played more prominent roles or were present at pivotal moments, their experiences were not indicators of a greater measure of divine love but rather reflections of their specific callings and God's strategic use of their lives. The true "favor" bestowed upon any apostle, and indeed upon any believer, is the gift of relationship with God through Jesus Christ, the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, and the opportunity to participate in His divine mission.

As we reflect on the lives of the apostles, let us not seek to identify a singular "favorite," but rather to emulate their faithfulness, their courage, their dedication, and their willingness to be used by God. For in doing so, we participate in the very same divine love that encompassed them all, and we discover for ourselves the immeasurable richness of being beloved children of God.

Who is God's Favorite Apostle? Exploring Divine Preference and Divine Love