John 1:43-51—Jesus calls Philip and Nathanael. When Jesus is in the area of John the Baptist, He calls Andrew and Peter as disciples. Then He goes to Galilee and calls Philip of Bethsaida. Philip asks Nathanael to come and see one, who he claims, is the Messiah.
At first Nathanael is skeptical and asks if anything good can come from an insignificant village of Nazareth. When Jesus tells Nathanael that he saw him under a fig tree at the time when Philip invited him, Nathanael changes his mind and calls Jesus the Son of God and King. Jesus did not want him to base his opinion on a miracle and promises that Nathanael will see greater things in the future.
Notice the word of Jesus’ call to Philip denotes a connection between Christ and the Christian. To follow Jesus means we acknowledge Him as shepherd, leader, and master. It is not an association of peers. There is no democratic relationship of equality. The word also indicates our position in the relationship. To follow Him does not mean we walk with Him (beside Him), nor before Him, but behind Him. He is first and we are second; He is leader and we are followers; He is master and we are servants.
Collect for Epiphany 2— Almighty and everlasting God, who governs all things in heaven and on earth, mercifully hear the prayers of Your people and grant us Your peace through all our days; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Lord God, You showed Your glory and led many to faith by the works of Your Son. As He brought gladness and healing to His people, grant us these same gifts and lead us also to perfect faith in Him.[1][1] Prayers during the Epiphany Season © Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis
Schnorr von Carolsfeld, woodcuts “The calling of Philip and
Nathanael” © WELS Permission to use these copyrighted items is limited to
personal and congregational use.
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