The First Disciples
Come and See Jesus, Encountering Christ in the Gospel of John, Jesus' Call to Discipleship, Faith and Personal Experience, Overcoming Doubt Through Christ, Inviting Others to Know Jesus, Biblical Reflection, Spiritual Growth Through Scripture, Practical Faith Applications
"The First Call: 'Come and See'" — In the golden light of dawn, the Lamb of God beckons His first disciples—Andrew, John, Simon Peter, Philip, and Nathanael—inviting them into the unfolding mystery of the Kingdom. Beneath the fig tree and along the ancient paths of Judea, eternity intersects with time as the Messiah is revealed.
Come and See: Discovering Jesus
Encountering Christ and Following His Call
The Gospel of John was written to reveal Jesus as the Son of God and to invite readers into a relationship with Him. In the first century, discipleship often involved a teacher-student relationship where the student would follow the teacher closely, learning not just through instruction but by observing their life. John the Baptist, a prophetic figure, prepared the way for Jesus, pointing his followers to the Messiah. This passage captures the moment when Jesus begins to gather His first disciples, a pivotal moment in His ministry.
In John 1:35-51, John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the "Lamb of God," prompting two of his disciples to follow Jesus. One of them, Andrew, brings his brother Simon (later called Peter) to meet Jesus. The next day, Jesus calls Philip, who then invites Nathanael to "come and see" Jesus for himself. Nathanael, initially skeptical, is amazed when Jesus reveals knowledge about him that only the Messiah could possess. This passage highlights the personal and relational nature of Jesus' call to discipleship.
John 1:39: "Come," He replied, "and you will see." This invitation from Jesus is both literal and spiritual. It reflects His openness and willingness to reveal Himself to those who seek Him.
John 1:46: "Can anything good come from Nazareth?" Nathanael asked. "Come and see," said Philip.” This verse underscores the importance of personal experience in faith. Philip doesn’t argue but invites Nathanael to encounter Jesus directly.
John 1:51: "Truly, truly, I tell you, you will see heaven open and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man." Jesus connects His mission to Jacob's vision in Genesis 28:12, revealing Himself as the bridge between heaven and earth.
This passage reminds us that Jesus' call is deeply personal. He meets each person where they are—Andrew and Peter through their curiosity, Philip through direct invitation, and Nathanael through a miraculous insight. Jesus' invitation to "come and see" is timeless, extending to all who are willing to seek Him. It also challenges us to be like Philip, inviting others to experience Jesus for themselves rather than relying solely on arguments or explanations.
Seek Jesus Personally: Take time to "come and see" Jesus through prayer, scripture reading, and worship. Let your faith be rooted in a personal relationship with Him.
Invite Others to Encounter Jesus: Like Philip, extend an invitation to others to explore faith. Share your testimony and encourage them to experience Jesus firsthand.
Overcome Skepticism with Experience: If you or someone you know struggles with doubt, remember Nathanael's story. Approach Jesus with an open heart and allow Him to reveal Himself in unexpected ways.
How have you experienced Jesus' invitation to "come and see" in your own life?
Are there areas of skepticism or doubt where you need to invite Jesus to reveal Himself?
Who in your life might be waiting for an invitation to encounter Jesus?
How can you be more intentional about seeking Jesus daily?
Lord Jesus,
Thank You for inviting us to come and see who You are. Help us to seek You with open hearts and to trust in Your ability to reveal Yourself to us. Give us the courage to invite others to experience Your love and grace. May we, like Nathanael, be amazed by Your knowledge of us and Your plans for our lives.
Amen.
"Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him." —Psalm 34:8
This week, invite someone to "come and see" Jesus. Whether through a conversation, an invitation to church, or sharing a devotional, be a bridge for someone to encounter Christ.
