Input on my confusing friendship and what to do?

Okay so, I'll call him John to make it easy. Up until the beginning of this September, John and I were pretty much acquaintances. This year though we've developed a friendship and we actually have a lot in common. The past few months though, our friendship has grown and I've developed a huge crush on him. I've had a few long term relationships in the past, all being women, but I've never had my heart race the way it does when I think of him or see him. I have suspicion that John is either bi or gay, but I don't want to be that person to assume something like this over something so private. However, I really do have good reason, or so I think, to believe this.
John has always been touchy, as in like poking and stuff, of which I return. He's a bit flamboyant, although I know that really isn't an indicator, considering I'm really not. There have been a countless number of times of which he's just said he was gay out of nowhere when we were talking, but he would always say just kidding or whatever immediately after. Him and I also look at each other for a few seconds at a time, sometimes in class or other places. During a test yesterday as well, we were making faces, but he turned and mouthed "I love you." I mouthed it back, as though I thought it were silly and funny, but I'm never sure if he's just got an interesting sense of humor or if he's hinting to me that he likes me. Later that day we were with friends and he just out of nowhere said he needed a boyfriend, and he's not exactly open as anything but straight. I probably seem oblivious, but the most confusing thing is, him and this girl have a thing. I feel like a jerk thinking this, but I feel like she's sort of a cover-up; something to protect him. She and him aren't dating and I've asked him if he was going to take her to Homecoming, but he seems hesitant. I think that the most they've ever done was hold hands and it's been a few weeks. His parent's are very strict and he identifies as christian. I feel like if anything, he's ashamed of his feelings, if they're there.
When we hangout, it seems oddly close; as though there's some sort of tension. We've gotten ice cream together and we've sung and played uke together, but I really don't know how to feel or what to think.
Sorry this is so long, but it's honestly been tearing me apart these past few weeks. If he doesn't like me back, I'm okay with just a friendship. If he does, then awesome!My friends all tell me that they think he likes me, but they're not sure either. I just really want to know how to feel... I appreciate any and all input. Thanks a ton! :icon_bigg

 

Thanks you guys. The next time we hangout, I think I might let him know how I feel. I do think that we both have the qualities for both a balanced friendship and relationship. If he doesn't feel the same, I'm perfectly okay with that. I just hope me stating my feelings for him doesn't ruin our friendship, but I'm sure it won't. I'll be sure to update you all if anything happens.