Scripture: John 1:48 (ESV) – “Nathanael said to him, ‘How do you know me?’ Jesus answered him, ‘Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.’”
In John 1:48, Nathanael expresses astonishment at Jesus’ knowledge of him, asking, “How do you know me?” Jesus’ response—that He saw Nathanael under the fig tree before Philip called him—reveals His divine omniscience. This moment is deeply personal, showing Nathanael that Jesus knows him completely, even in ways beyond human comprehension.
The mention of the fig tree is significant. In Jewish culture, a fig tree was often a place of reflection, prayer, or study. While the exact details of what Nathanael was doing under the fig tree are unknown, Jesus’ knowledge of this moment speaks to His ability to see and know the intimate details of our lives. This revelation profoundly impacts Nathanael, leading him to recognize Jesus as the Son of God in the next verse.
Nathanael’s question, “How do you know me?” reflects a universal longing to be known and understood. In a world where people often feel overlooked or misunderstood, this verse reminds us that Jesus knows us fully. He sees our actions, hears our prayers, and understands our hearts. His knowledge is not distant or judgmental but personal and loving.
This encounter challenges us to reflect on our response to Jesus’ knowledge of us. Do we find comfort in being known by Him, or does it make us hesitant because of areas we’d rather keep hidden? Jesus’ interaction with Nathanael shows that being fully known by Him leads not to condemnation but to a deeper relationship with the One who loves us completely.
Reflection Questions:
- How does it comfort you to know that Jesus sees and knows every detail of your life?
- Are there areas in your life you try to hide from God, and how can this verse encourage you to bring them to Him?
- How can you grow in trust, knowing that Jesus knows you fully and loves you completely?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for knowing us so deeply and loving us completely. Help us to trust in Your knowledge of our lives, even the parts we feel are hidden. Teach us to find peace and security in being fully known by You. Like Nathanael, may we respond to Your divine insight with faith and awe, drawing closer to You each day. Use Your knowledge of us to shape us into the people You’ve called us to be. In Your name, Amen.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 