Go and Find
Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the hometown of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the law (and so did the prophets): Jesus the son of Joseph, from Nazareth.
John 1:44-45 (CSB)
Philip wanted Nathanael to meet the Messiah, believing Jesus was the fulfillment of the law and the prophets. The Bible mentions that Philip actively sought out Nathanael. This shows that Philip didn't stop after engaging with Jesus himself but aimed to bring others to encounter Him as well. Reflecting on Philip’s example, should we be characterized by the same eagerness? Are we known for seeking out those who need Jesus so they can meet Him?
We need to share the message of Jesus with others. Philip approached Nathanael because he was concerned that Nathanael might not know about Jesus. He was eager to inform Nathanael that Jesus was the one described by Moses and foretold by the prophets. This encounter with Jesus profoundly changed Philip's life, filling him with hope. Driven by this newfound hope, Philip wanted others to experience the same knowledge he had gained. It is essential for us to cultivate a passion for sharing Jesus, just like Philip did. We should tell others who He is as the Messiah.
We need to actively seek out those who need Jesus. Philip’s passion drove him to search for Nathanael; he didn't wait for the next gathering when Nathanael might be present. Instead, he took the initiative because the message was urgent. Philip understood that timing was crucial, and the message had to be shared without delay. He sought out those he believed needed to hear about Jesus. When we think about the urgency of evangelism, do we actively pursue those who need to hear the gospel? Likely, God is placing someone on our minds and hearts right now. That person could be our Nathanael, and we are like Philip, holding the message they need. We must go out, find them, and invite them to Jesus.
We need to go out and bring others to Jesus. Philip exemplifies an essential truth for us: the importance of living on mission for the Lord and actively engaging people with the Gospel. He shows how vital it is to lead others to Jesus and to teach them that He is the Messiah. We must commit to being God’s people who are constantly on the move, reaching out to bring people to Jesus.
QUESTIONS
Who can you identify as a Nathanael that God has placed on your mind and in your heart right now? Will you be like Philip and go and find them so that they may hear of Jesus?
What steps in your life do you need to take to become more intentional with going and bringing other people to Jesus?
