Acts of John

Acts of John 58:1

Some time passed without any of the brethren ever being afflicted by John. But now they were afflicted, when he said, “Brethren, it is time for me to go to Ephesus — for such is the agreement with those who remained there — that they become not light-minded, being for a long time without their pastor. But you may direct your mind to God, who leaves us not.” And when the brethren heard this, they became sad that they should be separated from him. And John said, “Though I go from you, Christ is always with you. If you love him purely, you shall continually enjoy the blessings of his communion. For though he be loved, he loved those first who love him.”