MBTI Type: INFP

John has deep-seated convictions that drive his actions – rather than flee with the other disciples, he went to Golgotha and attended the crucifixion. He endured the death of his savior with quiet internal conviction and sorrow and does not seek to alter anyone else’s mind through force, but in expressing his own personal views. He is quiet and private in his feelings, but also wants evidence and for others to confirm ideas as rational – he questions whether others believe the Messiah will rise again, since it seems impossible. John does not often express his opinions nor attempt to change others, but also embraces them fully as individuals. His inferior Te shows in his emotionally-driven actions (risking his life by preaching in public and in the temple, attending the crucifixion, and in acting on conviction, more than rationality; but he also argues with the others to pursue logical courses and does not easily believe what he cannot see). He wants confirmation on his ideas from others – he wants to know if others believe Jesus will rise from the dead, and seems excited by the teachings of Jesus and in the new way, but he interprets them through his emotions and according to Jesus’ words, using his previous experiences of walking with Jesus to inform his beliefs. John trusts in his visions – one of which leads him to Barnabus, but seeks no meaning in them beyond divine appointments. His views on Saul / Paul change with additional information and exposure to Paul’s excitement, but part of him is reluctant to walk away from the temple, and his traditional upbringing, to embrace a world different from what he knows.

Enneagram: 9w1 so/sp

John has a quiet force about him, a forgiving heart that does not readily condemn others, but a willingness to stand up for what he believes in, when push comes to shove. He is compliant and faithful to Jesus, but also assertive in defending him; he has a gentle presence when he meets Barnabus in the temple courtyard, but is not afraid to risk his life by turning up at Jesus’ trial, seeing his mother through the crucifixion, or spreading the gospel. Like all 9’s, he can find the joy even in his suffering – and laughs when he is in prison with Peter. His 1 wing brings a desire to do right, and repress his own needs and desires for the greater good.