Real-Life Issues: The Testimony of Andrew, Philip and Nathanael

John the Baptist points to Jesus: “Behold the Lamb of God!” (John 1:36). Two disciples hear, follow, and Jesus asks, “What seek ye?” He invites them, “Come and see.” That simple invitation becomes the pattern for the first ripple of discipleship: Andrew tells Peter; Jesus finds Philip; Philip tells Nathanael; Nathanael meets Christ and confesses, “Thou art the Son of God.” (vv. 49–51)

The sermon highlights three early testimonies that still shape how we share Christ today:

1) Andrew: A Simple, Faithful Witness (vv. 35–42)

• Preparation: Andrew put himself where truth was preached (with John the Baptist), listened, and chose to follow Jesus (vv. 35–37).
• Purpose: He sought truth from the true Rabbi (v. 38).
• Promise: Jesus’ invitation—“Come and see”—assures seekers they will find truth in Him (v. 39).
• Product: Andrew immediately brings his brother: “We have found the Messias.” (vv. 40–42)Application: Position yourself under God’s Word, respond in faith, and bring someone with you.

2) Philip: Found by Jesus, Following Jesus (vv. 43–44)

• Resolve: Jesus went after Philip—He seeks the lost (Luke 19:10).
• Reason: Gospel influence often travels through relationships (Philip is from the same city as Andrew and Peter).
• Result: “Follow me” leads to a life of discipleship—not convenience, but commitment.Application: Remember Who started your story. Christ sought you first—now follow Him closely and let your influence flow to your circle.

3) Nathanael: From Skepticism to Surrender (vv. 45–51)

• Perplexity & Prejudice: “Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth?” Honest doubts and biases can blind us.
• Practice: Philip doesn’t argue; he invites—“Come and see.”
• Penetrating Knowledge: Jesus reveals He saw Nathanael under the fig tree—He knows our hearts and longings (v. 48).
• Profession: Nathanael confesses, “Thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel.” (v. 49)Application: Invite the skeptic. Jesus can meet honest doubts with personal, heart-searching grace.

Why Your Testimony Matters

Scripture ties spiritual victory and gospel advance to “the blood of the Lamb, and… the word of their testimony”(Rev. 12:11). The apostles “gave witness… and great grace was upon them all” (Acts 4:33). Our lives become living letters “known and read of all men” (2 Cor. 3:2). So:

• Live worthy of the gospel (Phil. 1:27).
• Be ready to answer with hope (1 Pet. 3:15).
• Share what you do know (John 9:25): “I was blind, now I see.”

Takeaways for Today

1. Place yourself where truth is preached. Hear the Word—and decide to follow Jesus.
2. Use simple invitations. “Come and see” still works; bring a name before the Lord, then bring that person to Jesus.
3. Let grace shape your conduct. Your walk authenticates your words.
4. Tell your story. God will use your testimony to point someone to His Son.

Call to Response:

Are you seeking purpose, forgiveness, or truth? Come and see Jesus. Already a believer? Ask God for one person this week to invite—and the grace to live a testimony that matches the gospel you share.