Scripture: John 1:39 (ESV) – “He said to them, ‘Come and you will see.’ So they came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour.”
In John 1:39, Jesus responds to the disciples’ question, “Where are you staying?” with a simple yet profound invitation: “Come and you will see.” This is more than an invitation to visit His temporary lodging—it is a call to enter into a deeper relationship, to experience firsthand who He is and what He offers.
The phrase “Come and you will see” encapsulates the heart of Jesus’ ministry. He invites people not just to hear about Him but to encounter Him. This invitation still stands today. Jesus doesn’t demand that we have all the answers before coming to Him. Instead, He calls us to step out in faith and experience the truth of who He is. The disciples’ response—going and staying with Jesus—marks the beginning of their journey as His followers.
The reference to the “tenth hour” (about 4 p.m.) adds a personal touch, showing the vivid memory of this moment, likely from John the Apostle, one of the two disciples. This encounter with Jesus was life-changing, a turning point so significant it was forever etched in their minds. It’s a reminder that when we truly encounter Jesus, it transforms us. Our lives are never the same after we “come and see.”
This verse challenges us to reflect on our willingness to respond to Jesus’ invitation. Are we hesitating, waiting for all the details to make sense, or are we stepping out in faith to experience His grace and truth? Furthermore, it reminds us of the importance of inviting others to “come and see.” Just as Jesus invited the disciples, we are called to extend that same invitation to those around us.
Reflection Questions:
- Have you responded to Jesus’ invitation to “come and see”? If so, how has that encounter changed your life?
- In what ways can you make time to “stay” with Jesus and deepen your relationship with Him?
- Who in your life can you invite to “come and see” what Jesus has done and continues to do?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for inviting us to come and see who You are. Help us to respond in faith, experiencing the fullness of Your grace and truth. Teach us to abide in Your presence, staying with You and growing in our love and understanding of You. Give us boldness to invite others to encounter You as well, trusting that You will transform their lives just as You have transformed ours. In Your name, Amen.
*edited from Pastor Chris Cousine’s sermon on John 1:35-51, supplemented by writings from J.C. Ryle and John Calvin*
Covenant Presbyterian Church 