Pass it On

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 4, 2024 | John 1:40-46

KEY VERSE:

“Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Nathanael asked. “Come and see,” said Philip. John 1:46 (NIV)

MESSAGE: In John 1:40-46, we witness a beautiful example of discipleship in action as Andrew, after encountering Jesus, immediately seeks out his brother Simon Peter and invites him, saying, "We have found the Messiah" (John 1:41). This act of passing on the invitation to encounter Jesus serves as a powerful model for us as believers today.

Andrew's actions remind us of the importance of sharing our faith with others. Just as he eagerly shared the good news of Jesus with his own family, we are called to do the same with those around us. The invitation to encounter Jesus is not meant to be hoarded but shared generously with others, extending the same life-changing opportunity that we have received.

Moreover, Andrew's example challenges us to intentionally reach out to those closest to us. He didn't have to go far to find Simon Peter; he reached out to his brother. Similarly, we have unique opportunities to share the love of Christ with our family members, friends, neighbours, and colleagues, starting right where we are.

We also see a similar thing happening with Philip after being called by Jesus, extending the hand of fellowship to Nathaniel. He ended up repeating the same inviting words Jesus used; “come and see”. May we pass on the invitation with the same enthusiasm and urgency that Andrew displayed, knowing that through our witness, others may also come to know and follow the Messiah.

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

Be encouraged and inspired today, to pass on the invitation to encounter Jesus to those around you. Be intentional about sharing your faith with others and inviting them to experience the life-transforming power of knowing Christ. Target someone today.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to share my faith with those around me. Help me to draw them to follow Jesus by passing on the invitation to them. For your dear name’s sake. Amen

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!

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DAILY word study: SEE The term "see" in the Greek text is translated from "ἴδε" (ide). "ἴδε" is an imperative form of the verb "ὁράω" (horao), indicating an urgent call to perceive, behold, or observe.

In John 1:46, Nathanael responds to Philip's invitation to meet Jesus with scepticism, questioning if anything good can come from Nazareth. Philip's simple response is an invitation for Nathanael to "come and see."

The term "see" in this context isn't merely about visual perception; it's an invitation for Nathanael to encounter Jesus personally, to experience who He is and what He brings. Nathanael's initial scepticism about Nazareth reflects preconceived notions. The invitation to "see" challenges these preconceptions, encouraging a firsthand experience.

"Come and see" becomes a recurring theme in the Gospel of John, reflecting the broader invitation of Jesus to humanity. It emphasizes the experiential nature of faith and discipleship.

In your journey of faith, how have you responded to the invitation to "come and see" who Jesus is? How have personal encounters and experiences shaped your understanding of Him?