Scripture: John 1:47 (ESV) – “Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, ‘Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!’”

In John 1:47, we see Jesus demonstrate His divine knowledge of Nathanael, declaring him to be “an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit.” Before Nathanael has even spoken, Jesus identifies his character with remarkable accuracy. This moment reveals Jesus’ ability to know people fully and deeply, not just outwardly but inwardly.

The phrase “an Israelite indeed” reflects Nathanael’s authentic faith and integrity. Jesus is acknowledging that Nathanael is not merely an Israelite by birth but one who genuinely seeks to live according to God’s ways. This is a powerful affirmation, especially given Nathanael’s earlier skepticism about Jesus. Jesus doesn’t rebuke him for his doubts but instead honors the sincerity of his heart.

The description “in whom there is no deceit” calls to mind the story of Jacob, the patriarch whose name was associated with deceit before being transformed by God (Genesis 32:28). In contrast, Nathanael is a man of straightforward honesty, someone who seeks the truth. Jesus’ recognition of this quality highlights how much God values authenticity and integrity in our relationship with Him.

This verse challenges us to reflect on our own hearts. Are we living with integrity, honestly seeking God and His truth? It also reminds us that Jesus knows us fully—our thoughts, motivations, and struggles. This can be both humbling and comforting. Despite our flaws, He sees us as we are and calls us into a deeper relationship with Him.

Reflection Questions:

1. What does it mean to live as someone “in whom there is no deceit”? Are there areas in your life where you need to grow in integrity or authenticity?
2. How does it comfort you to know that Jesus sees and knows you fully, even before you speak?
3. How can Nathanael’s encounter with Jesus encourage you to bring your doubts and questions honestly before Him?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for knowing us fully and still inviting us to follow You. Teach us to live with integrity and authenticity, seeking You with sincere hearts. Help us to bring our doubts and questions to You, trusting that You will meet us where we are. May our lives reflect the truth and honesty that You value, and may we grow in deeper relationship with You each day. In Your name, Amen.

Scripture: John 1:46 (ESV) – “Nathanael said to him, ‘Can anything good come out of Nazareth?’ Philip said to him, ‘Come and see.’”

In John 1:46, we see Nathanael’s skepticism as he responds to Philip’s announcement about Jesus with a dismissive question: “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Nathanael’s reaction reflects the common prejudice of the time—Nazareth was an insignificant town, not the kind of place from which one would expect the Messiah to emerge. His doubt reveals how easy it is to dismiss something—or someone—based on preconceived notions.

Philip’s response to Nathanael is simple yet profound: “Come and see.” Instead of arguing or trying to convince Nathanael with words, Philip invites him to experience Jesus for himself. This is a powerful example of how to handle skepticism. Rather than becoming defensive or combative, Philip trusts that an encounter with Jesus will speak for itself. He points Nathanael directly to the source of truth.

This interaction reminds us that doubt and questions are part of the journey of faith for many people. Like Nathanael, some may struggle to reconcile their expectations with the reality of Jesus. Our role, like Philip’s, is not to have all the answers but to invite others to “come and see” who Jesus is. Trusting that Jesus can reveal Himself is a vital part of sharing the gospel.

For Nathanael, this moment of doubt becomes a turning point. By responding to Philip’s invitation, he encounters Jesus and moves from skepticism to belief. This shows us that even those who question or doubt can experience the transformative power of meeting Christ.

Reflection Questions:

1. How do you respond to skepticism or doubt, whether in yourself or others?
2. Are there people in your life who need a gentle invitation to “come and see” Jesus?
3. How can you trust Jesus to reveal Himself to those who are skeptical or questioning?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for meeting us in our doubts and revealing Yourself to us. Help us to respond to skepticism with grace, inviting others to encounter You personally. Teach us to trust in Your power to transform hearts and lives. Give us the humility to admit when we don’t have all the answers and the confidence to point others to You, knowing that You are the source of truth and hope. In Your name, Amen.

Scripture: John 1:45 (ESV) – “Philip found Nathanael and said to him, ‘We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.’”

In John 1:45, Philip demonstrates the natural response of encountering Jesus: he immediately seeks out Nathanael to share the good news. Philip’s excitement and conviction are evident as he declares that they have found the One foretold by Moses and the prophets—Jesus of Nazareth. This verse is a powerful reminder of how the gospel is spread, one person inviting another to “come and see.”

Philip’s declaration connects Jesus to the Old Testament Scriptures, showing that Jesus is not a new invention but the fulfillment of God’s long-awaited promises. By referencing Moses and the prophets, Philip highlights the continuity of God’s redemptive plan. This connection also shows the importance of understanding Scripture, as it reveals who Jesus is and why He came.

Philip’s mention of “Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph” reflects his current understanding of Jesus’ identity. At this point, Philip doesn’t yet grasp the fullness of Jesus’ divinity, but his testimony is still sincere and compelling. This shows us that we don’t need to have perfect theological knowledge to share the gospel. What matters is our conviction that Jesus is the One who fulfills our deepest needs and longings.

Nathanael’s skeptical response in the next verse reminds us that not everyone will immediately accept our testimony about Jesus. However, Philip’s example encourages us to be faithful in sharing what we know, trusting God to work in the hearts of those we invite to “come and see.”

Reflection Questions:

1. How has your understanding of Jesus grown as you’ve studied Scripture?
2. Are there people in your life who need to hear your testimony about Jesus? How can you share the good news with them?
3. What lessons can you learn from Philip’s willingness to share his discovery of Jesus, even with limited understanding?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for being the fulfillment of God’s promises and the hope of all humanity. Help us to be like Philip, eager to share the good news with others and invite them to come and see who You are. Teach us to trust in Your Word and grow in our understanding of Your truth. Give us boldness to share our faith, even when we feel inadequate, knowing that You will work in the hearts of those we point to You. In Your name, Amen.

Scripture: John 1:44 (ESV) – “Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.”

In John 1:44, we learn a small but significant detail about Philip: he is from Bethsaida, the same town as Andrew and Peter. This verse connects Philip to a community already touched by Jesus’ ministry, showing how God often uses relationships and existing connections to spread the gospel.

Bethsaida was a humble fishing village, far from the centers of power and influence. Yet, it became a place where Jesus called His first disciples. This reminds us that God’s work often begins in unexpected places and among ordinary people. It’s not the prominence of a location or the status of individuals that matters, but their willingness to respond to Jesus’ call.

The mention of Bethsaida also points to the relational nature of discipleship. Andrew, Peter, and Philip likely knew each other well before meeting Jesus. Their shared hometown and relationships became a bridge for sharing the good news. This challenges us to consider how God might be using our own connections—family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers—to bring others into His kingdom.

Philip, like Andrew, would soon become a witness to others, as seen in the next verses when he brings Nathanael to Jesus. This shows the ripple effect of following Christ. When one person meets Jesus, they often naturally share Him with those around them, extending the invitation to “come and see.”

Reflection Questions:

1. How has God used relationships in your life to draw you closer to Jesus?
2. Who in your circle of relationships might God be calling you to share the gospel with?
3. How can you use the ordinary connections in your life to point others to Christ?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for using ordinary people and relationships to accomplish extraordinary things. Help us to see the opportunities You’ve placed in our lives to share Your love with those around us. Teach us to be faithful witnesses in our communities, showing others the joy and hope found in You. May we never underestimate how You can work through the relationships and connections we already have to expand Your kingdom. In Your name, Amen.

Scripture: John 1:43 (ESV) – “The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, ‘Follow me.’”

In John 1:43, we see Jesus take the initiative, seeking out Philip and extending a simple yet life-changing invitation: “Follow me.” This call is direct and personal, demonstrating the intentionality of Jesus in choosing His disciples. Unlike Andrew and Peter, who were introduced to Jesus by others, Philip is sought out by Jesus Himself, showing that He meets each person in unique and specific ways.

The phrase “Follow me” is more than an invitation to walk behind Jesus physically—it’s a call to discipleship, a life of learning, obedience, and transformation. When Jesus calls someone, it is not merely to observe from a distance but to fully commit to Him, leaving behind the old life and embracing a new one shaped by His teaching and mission.

Philip’s response isn’t detailed in this verse, but the context suggests he immediately follows Jesus. This reminds us that responding to Jesus’ call often requires trust and faith, even when we don’t have all the answers. Philip didn’t yet know all that following Jesus would entail, but he trusted the One who called him.

This verse challenges us to reflect on our own response to Jesus’ invitation. Are we actively following Him, allowing His Word and Spirit to guide our daily lives? Or are we hesitating, holding back because of uncertainty or fear? Jesus’ call to Philip reminds us that discipleship is not about qualifications or prior knowledge—it’s about a willingness to trust Him and walk where He leads.

Reflection Questions:

1. How have you responded to Jesus’ call to “Follow me”? Are there areas where you are hesitant to fully commit?
2. What does it mean for you to actively follow Jesus in your daily life?
3. How can you trust Jesus more deeply, even when you don’t know where He is leading?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for calling us to follow You. Help us to trust You completely, leaving behind anything that holds us back from living as Your disciples. Teach us to walk closely with You, listening to Your Word and following Your guidance. May we be faithful in responding to Your call, knowing that You are the One who leads us into abundant life. Strengthen our faith and deepen our commitment to You each day. In Your name, Amen.

Scripture: John 1:42 (ESV) – “He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, ‘You are Simon the son of John. You shall be called Cephas’ (which means Peter).”

In John 1:42, Andrew brings his brother Simon to Jesus, and in their very first encounter, Jesus does something remarkable. He looks at Simon and gives him a new name: “You shall be called Cephas” (translated as Peter, meaning “rock”). This simple act carries profound significance, symbolizing not only a change in Simon’s identity but also in his purpose.

Jesus sees Simon for who he is, but more importantly, for who he will become. Simon, an ordinary fisherman, will be transformed by Christ into Peter, the “rock” on which the early church will be built (Matthew 16:18). This is not merely a prediction—it is a declaration of what Jesus will accomplish in Simon’s life. Before Simon has proven himself, Jesus speaks into his potential, demonstrating His authority to shape lives and His power to bring about transformation.

This moment is a reminder that when we come to Jesus, He not only knows us fully but also calls us into a new identity and purpose. Like Simon, we are not defined by our past or even our present. Jesus sees who we can become through His grace and power. This is both comforting and challenging—comforting because our flaws and failures don’t disqualify us, and challenging because following Jesus means surrendering to His transformative work in our lives.

Andrew’s role in this encounter is also significant. He brings Simon to Jesus, showing us the importance of inviting others to meet Christ. We may not know how God will use them, but our faithfulness in pointing others to Jesus can have eternal impact.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does it encourage you to know that Jesus sees not only who you are but who you can become through His grace?
2. Are there areas in your life where you need to surrender to Jesus’ transformative work?
3. Who in your life can you bring to Jesus, trusting Him to shape their future in ways beyond what you can imagine?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for knowing us fully and calling us into a new identity and purpose. Like Simon, we come to You as we are, trusting You to transform us into who You’ve created us to be. Help us to surrender to Your work in our lives, allowing You to shape our character and use us for Your glory. Teach us to faithfully bring others to You, trusting in Your power to change lives. May we walk boldly in the new identity You give us, always pointing others to You. In Your name, Amen.

Scripture: John 1:41 (ESV) – “He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (which means Christ).”

John 1:41 captures a moment of excitement and urgency as Andrew, one of the first followers of Jesus, immediately seeks out his brother Simon Peter to share the good news: “We have found the Messiah.” This verse highlights the natural response to encountering Jesus—sharing Him with those closest to us.

The term “Messiah” (translated as “Christ”) was loaded with meaning for Andrew and his fellow Jews. For centuries, they had awaited the Anointed One, who would bring deliverance and fulfill God’s promises to His people. When Andrew declares, “We have found the Messiah,” it isn’t just an announcement; it’s an expression of joy, hope, and fulfillment. He has discovered the One who answers the deepest longings of the human heart.

Andrew’s first instinct is to bring his brother Simon to Jesus. This simple yet profound act demonstrates the power of personal relationships in spreading the gospel. Andrew doesn’t wait for Simon to come to him—he goes to find him. This reflects a heart transformed by encountering Christ, a heart eager to see others experience the same life-changing relationship.

This verse challenges us to consider whether we share Andrew’s urgency and joy. When we truly grasp who Jesus is—the fulfillment of God’s promises and the hope of the world—it should compel us to share the good news with those around us. Like Andrew, we don’t need to be great theologians or public speakers; we simply need to invite others to “come and see.”

Reflection Questions:

1. Do you feel the same excitement and urgency as Andrew to share the good news of Jesus with others? Why or why not?
2. Who in your life needs to hear about the hope found in Christ? How can you share the gospel with them?
3. How does recognizing Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises deepen your joy and motivate your witness?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for being the Messiah, the Anointed One who brings hope and salvation. Fill our hearts with the same joy and urgency that Andrew felt as he shared the good news with his brother. Help us to boldly tell others about You, beginning with those closest to us. May our lives reflect the hope and fulfillment we have found in You, and may our witness draw others to Your saving grace. In Your name, Amen.

Scripture: John 1:40 (ESV) – “One of the two who heard John speak and followed Jesus was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother.”

In John 1:40, we are introduced to Andrew, one of the first two disciples to follow Jesus. Though Andrew is often overshadowed by his more prominent brother, Peter, his role in this moment is profound. Andrew hears John the Baptist’s declaration about Jesus and acts on it, becoming one of the first followers of Christ. His decision to follow Jesus not only changes his life but also sets in motion events that will shape the early church.

Andrew’s example reminds us of the power of personal witness. John the Baptist’s faithful testimony about Jesus compels Andrew to take the first step of faith. In turn, Andrew becomes a witness himself, bringing his brother Peter to Jesus. This pattern of hearing, responding, and sharing is central to the Christian life. Faith begins with hearing the truth, but it grows and multiplies when we share it with others.

Though Andrew is mentioned less frequently in the Gospels compared to Peter, his actions are deeply significant. Each time we see Andrew, he is bringing someone to Jesus—whether it’s Peter, the boy with the loaves and fishes (John 6:8-9), or a group of Greeks seeking Jesus (John 12:20-22). Andrew’s quiet faithfulness highlights that following Jesus is not about fame or recognition but about pointing others to Him.

This verse challenges us to reflect on our own witness. Like Andrew, we may not have a prominent role, but we can still play a crucial part in leading others to Christ. Even the simple act of sharing our faith with one person can have ripple effects that extend far beyond what we can imagine.

Reflection Questions:

1. Who has been a faithful witness in your life, helping you take steps toward Jesus?
2. In what ways can you, like Andrew, point others to Christ through your actions and words?
3. Are there people in your life who need an invitation to meet Jesus, and how can you reach out to them?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for the example of Andrew, whose faith and willingness to follow You led others to do the same. Help us to be faithful witnesses in our own lives, sharing Your truth with those around us. Teach us to see the opportunities You place before us to bring others to You, whether through our words, actions, or prayers. May we remember that no act of faithfulness is too small when it points to You. 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*

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:

1. Have you responded to Jesus’ invitation to “come and see”? If so, how has that encounter changed your life?
2. In what ways can you make time to “stay” with Jesus and deepen your relationship with Him?
3. 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*

Scripture: John 1:38 (ESV) – “Jesus turned and saw them following and said to them, ‘What are you seeking?’ And they said to him, ‘Rabbi’ (which means Teacher), ‘where are you staying?’”

In John 1:38, Jesus asks the first recorded question in the Gospel of John: “What are you seeking?” This profound question speaks directly to the heart of every individual. It challenges not just the actions of the two disciples following Him, but the motivation and purpose behind those actions. Why are you here? What is it you truly want?

The disciples, who had been following John the Baptist, now physically follow Jesus after hearing John’s declaration, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” Their response to Jesus’ question, “Where are you staying?” may seem simple on the surface, but it reflects a deeper desire to be with Him and learn from Him. They recognize Jesus as a teacher, but their journey to fully understanding Him as the Messiah has just begun.

Jesus’ question is one that we must all answer at some point. As the sermon document emphasizes, we live in a world searching for meaning in all the wrong places. Many seek fulfillment in success, relationships, or pleasure, yet these pursuits ultimately leave us empty. Jesus confronts us with the question: What are you really looking for? Is it meaning, purpose, peace, or truth? Only He can provide what our hearts truly long for.

The disciples’ response also reminds us of the importance of being with Jesus. They weren’t content with a passing interaction—they wanted to stay where He was, to know Him more deeply. This challenges us to evaluate our own relationship with Christ. Are we content with superficial knowledge, or do we desire to truly dwell with Him, learning from Him and abiding in His presence?

Reflection Questions:

1. What are you seeking in your life, and how does Jesus fulfill that desire?
2. Are you pursuing a deep, abiding relationship with Jesus, or settling for surface-level faith?
3. How might Jesus’ question, “What are you seeking?” shape your daily priorities and decisions?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for meeting us where we are and inviting us to follow You. Help us to honestly answer the question, “What are you seeking?” Teach us to recognize that our deepest needs and longings are satisfied in You alone. Give us the desire to dwell with You, to know You more deeply, and to abide in Your presence each day. Lead us to live lives that reflect Your truth and draw others to You. 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*