As we think about the names and descriptors of our Lord, verse 29 adds a most important one to our lists. John the Baptist sees Jesus coming and says, "Behold, the Lamb of God ..." Lamb of God. That is the scarlet cord that runs throughout the Old Testament. The lamb ... the sacrifice ... without blemish ... forgiveness of sins ... atonement ... Lamb of God. If you have time today, or perhaps tomorrow, spend a little time reflecting on this name of Jesus. As you do so ... follow these cross references:
Leviticus 4: 32 - 34 Isaiah 53 1 Peter 1: 18 - 20 1 Peter 2:24
Read ... reflect ... and worship as you, too, 'behold the Lamb of God'.
The verses in John 1 that we have read today introduce us to several men. What impresses you most about each one? Remember that they are flesh and blood men, not story-book characters. When I read about them and try to put myself in their shoes ... several things come to mind.
John the Baptist: (verses 19 - 37) I love the absence of personal ego in John the Baptist. He points to Jesus ... always. He knows that he is not the center, not the main one. He understands that his task is to point people to Jesus, to prepare them for His coming, for His message. Ego gets most of us into a lot of trouble. Ego causes us to fight and fuss when we could be still. Ego drives wedges in relationships. Inflated ego seems to result in one of two things ... either the person is puffed up and really believes the world should do exactly what she wants (OK - maybe not the world, but certainly my family and my circles) or ... the person is so self-effacing that she can do nothing. She needs constant, moment-by-moment reassurance that she is OK. John the Baptist seems to do what he knows he is to do ... and points to Jesus. What a beautiful example to follow!
Andrew: (verses 35 - 42) I think Andrew had a seeker's heart. I think he was teachable. He was willing to follow. Was it his own hunger for God that had led him to be one of John the Baptist's disciples? Don't miss the "first" thing he did when he followed and listened to Jesus - he immediately went to tell his brother, Simon. Is that the first thing you do when you encounter God? Tell someone? I tend to be private. I am going to work to follow Andrew's example here. When I know I have been touched by God - tell it! It brings glory and honor to God.
Simon: (verses 41 - 42) We don't learn much about Simon in John's record of his "call" by Jesus. We know he let Andrew lead him to Jesus. We know he stayed. We know Jesus changed his name to Cephas (or Peter in Greek). And this may be the only record of Peter's presence when he says nothing! Lessons? Sometimes, say nothing!
Philip: (verses 43 - 46) Again, Philip shares what he knows, what he has found. I am also impressed by the fact that Philip is not put off by his friend, Nathanael's cynicism. He merely dismisses it ... and says, 'Come and see'. I like that. Philip saw no need to have to prove himself ... or defend himself. Just, 'come and see' for yourself. Lessons for me? Give people the opportunity to meet Jesus. Their response is their business. My business is to "point to Jesus".
Nathanael: (verses 45 - 51) The cynic, yes ... but also willing to 'come and see' ... willing to change his mind. We need to be willing to change our minds over some things. We need to be willing to observe and learn and lay aside some long standing prejudices. Do you have any? Identify them. Admit them! Perhaps God would have you change your mind ... have you be more like Nathanael.
Are you a follower of Jesus? When did He call you? Are you ignoring His call? Why? Was someone a "Andrew" or a "Philip" for you? Have you told them? If you began following a long time ago and have grown tired or lazy, is it time to get back on the road? To get back in step with the Master?
He still says, "Follow me ..."
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