John 1:43-46

John 1:43-46:

The day after calling His first disciples, Jesus decides to go to Galilee and finds Philip, saying to him, “Follow me.” 

Philip, from Bethsaida (like Andrew and Peter), then seeks out Nathanael and excitedly tells him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Nathanael skeptically asks, “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” to which Philip replies, “Come and see”

From John Calvin’s commentary: “How small was the measure of Philip’s faith appears from this circumstance, that he cannot utter a few words about Christ without mingling with them two gross errors… and yet, because he is sincerely desirous to do good to his brother, and to make Christ known, God approves of this instance of his diligence, and even crowns it with good success.” 

Reflection:

These verses highlight the relational nature of faith in Christian life: 

Jesus initiates the call, as with Philip, prompting believers to share discoveries enthusiastically despite imperfections, much like Philip’s invitation to Nathanael. 

They encourage overcoming prejudices through personal encounter—“come and see”—reminding Christians that evangelism often starts with simple, persistent invitations amid doubt, leading to deeper revelation and commitment.