John 1:38-39 is about the invitation of Jesus to two of John the Baptist’s disciples to come and see where he was staying, symbolizing the personal and intimate relationship that Jesus desires with his followers.
38 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?”
39 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.
Setting the Scene for John 1:38-39
In John chapter 1, we find the scene where John the Baptist is with two of his disciples. John the Baptist had been proclaiming the coming of the Messiah and had gained a following of devoted followers. Two of these followers were Andrew and another disciple, who is traditionally believed to be John, the author of the Gospel.
As John the Baptist was standing with his disciples, Jesus passed by, and John proclaimed, “Look, the Lamb of God!” Upon hearing this, Andrew and the other disciple started following Jesus. Sensing their presence, Jesus turned around and asked them, “What do you seek?” They responded by asking where He was staying. Jesus then invited them to come and see, leading to a significant moment where they spent time with Him and began to understand His true identity.
The scene is set in the wilderness near the Jordan River, where John the Baptist had been baptizing people. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation and excitement as the disciples are on the brink of a life-changing encounter with Jesus, the long-awaited Messiah. The simplicity of the surroundings contrasts with the profound significance of the moment, as Andrew and John take their first steps towards becoming followers of Christ.
What is John 1:38-39 about?
This verse highlights the personal invitation and intimate relationship Jesus had with His disciples. Jesus was not just instructing or teaching them but forming a deep bond of friendship and mentorship by inviting them to follow Him and spending time together. This act of companionship signifies the importance of investing time in building relationships with our followers or learners.
Imagine the impact of Jesus’ simple invitation on these disciples. It was not about giving a lecture or a lesson but about walking alongside them, sharing experiences, and demonstrating the values and principles through His actions. Jesus showed us the importance of leading by example and nurturing relationships through genuine care and companionship. We, as educators, must reflect on how we engage with our students or followers. Are we merely imparting knowledge, or are we walking alongside them, guiding and supporting them in their journey of growth and learning? Jesus’ approach in this verse teaches us the power of personal connection and the significance of being present with those we lead.
Understanding what John 1:38-39 really means
In the early stages of Jesus’ ministry, as depicted in John 1:38-39, we witness a pivotal moment where the first disciples are called to follow Him. This interaction holds profound significance as it sets the foundation for their journey of faith and discipleship. Understanding these initial encounters between Jesus and His followers is crucial in grasping the essence of what it means to respond to His call and embark on a life-changing path.
When Jesus asks the disciples, “What do you seek?” in verse 38, He prompts them to reflect on their deepest desires and intentions. This question goes beyond a mere inquiry; it delves into the core of their being, challenging them to consider the purpose of their pursuit. It invites us, too, to ponder what drives us in our own quest for meaning and fulfillment.
The disciples’ response, addressing Jesus as “Rabbi (which means Teacher),” signifies their recognition of Him as a source of wisdom and guidance. By acknowledging Jesus as their Teacher, they reveal their readiness to learn from Him and follow His lead. This acknowledgment serves as a model for us, highlighting the importance of humility and openness in approaching Jesus as our ultimate Teacher.
Moreover, Jesus’ invitation, “Come and you will see,” extends beyond a mere physical invitation. It is an offer to experience and witness His life and teachings firsthand, inviting the disciples into a transformative journey of faith. This invitation echoes through the ages, beckoning us to encounter Jesus personally and intimately, to witness His work in our lives and be transformed by His presence.
In Matthew 4:19, we see a parallel call to discipleship as Jesus invites His followers to “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” This underscores the transformative nature of the journey with Jesus, where He not only leads us but also shapes us into instruments of His grace and love. Similarly, Revelation 3:20 emphasizes the personal nature of Jesus’ invitation, highlighting His desire for a close and intimate relationship with each of us.
In today’s world, where many are searching for meaning and purpose, the relevance of Jesus’ invitation to “come and see” remains as poignant as ever. Just as the disciples were called to experience Jesus firsthand, individuals today are urged to seek a personal encounter with Him, to taste and see the goodness of the Lord for themselves.
Consider the story of someone who, amidst life’s challenges, found purpose and transformation through a personal relationship with Jesus. This individual, perhaps attending a church service, felt a stirring in their heart, leading them to follow Jesus wholeheartedly. Through this decision, their life was profoundly changed, illustrating the power of responding to Jesus’ call to “come and see.”
As we reflect on these passages and their implications for our lives, let us heed the ongoing invitation from Jesus to experience His presence and teachings firsthand. May we be open to His transformative work in our lives, responding to His call with faith and readiness to follow wherever He leads.
How can we seek and follow Jesus today?
We can seek and follow Jesus today by acknowledging Him as our Lord and Savior and by earnestly desiring to be in His presence. We can choose to seek Jesus and spend time in His presence through prayer, reading the Bible, and fellowshipping with other believers, just as John and Andrew did when He invited them to come and see where He was staying. We can grow closer to Him and experience His love and guidance in our lives by actively seeking Him with a sincere heart.
Following Jesus today also involves being open to His leading and direction in our lives. We can come to Him with our concerns, desires, and uncertainties, just as Jesus asked the disciples what they were seeking. We can seek His will through prayer and by listening to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. When we align our hearts with His and surrender our plans to His divine purpose, we can be confident that we are on the right path and following Jesus in our daily lives. We can follow Jesus today by sharing the good news of His love and salvation with others. We too can introduce others to the life-changing power of a relationship with Christ, just as Andrew found his brother Peter and brought him to Jesus. We can be active participants in bringing others to Jesus and leading them into a transformative relationship with Him by sharing our own testimonies, demonstrating His love through our actions, and speaking boldly of His grace.
Application
Jesus’ words in John 1:38-39, “Come and you will see,” invite us to seek and experience His presence. Imagine it as an open door to a room filled with wisdom and strength. Just like balancing work and family, choosing to follow Him brings harmony to our lives. Will you step through that door and let His goodness reshape your journey?
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.