Jesus’ First Disciples. Read John 1:35-42
Have you ever felt a quiet tug in your heart, like you’re meant for something more? That longing is real. I believe it’s God’s way of inviting us into something greater. This includes a relationship with Him and a purpose only He can give. As I study the Bible and seek to know God more personally, I keep coming back to moments where Jesus called His first disciples. One of the most powerful examples is found in John 1:35–42.
A Divine Encounter
The passage begins with John the Baptist standing with two of his disciples. When he sees Jesus passing by, he declares once again:
“Look, the Lamb of God!”
This wasn’t the first time he said it, but this time, it triggered a life-changing response. The two disciples immediately began following Jesus. When Jesus noticed them, He didn’t dismiss them—He engaged them.
“What do you want?” He asked.
They replied with a question of their own:
“Rabbi, where are you staying?”
And Jesus answered with an invitation that still echoes today:
“Come, and you will see.”
That invitation was about more than just a place. It was an open door to relationship, revelation, and transformation.
A Brother’s Bold Step
One of the two disciples was Andrew, who quickly went to find his brother, Simon. With excitement, he told him,
“We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ).
He then brought Simon to Jesus. And in that moment, something incredible happened.
Jesus looked at Simon and said,
“You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter).
This was no casual nickname. In Scripture, when God changes someone’s name, it marks a turning point in their identity. It also signals a new mission (like Abram to Abraham, or Jacob to Israel). Jesus was revealing who Simon would become. He was not just a follower. Instead, Simon would be a pillar of faith and a “rock” in the foundation of the Church (Matthew 16:18). Jesus saw Simon’s destiny even before Simon did.
God’s Call Is Always Personal—and Purposeful
This moment in Scripture shows us something beautiful: the calling of the first disciples was not accidental. It was orchestrated by God. The timing, the people, the conversations—each step was part of His divine plan. And the same is true for us today.
My Own Turning Point
There was a season in my life when everything felt uncertain. I was drifting—searching for direction, but unsure where to turn. During that time, my cousin invited me to join her at a Sunday service. I almost said no. But something nudged me to go.
As I stepped into the church worship hall, I was met by a sea of people raising their hands. They were singing with hearts wide open. It was overwhelming—and beautiful. I stood there quietly, unsure if I even belonged. But then, something unexpected happened. In the middle of all that praise, I felt it—not judgment, not pressure—but peace. A deep, comforting peace that wrapped around me like a warm blanket.
It was as if God Himself was saying, “Welcome home.” In that moment, I realized I was the prodigal child, and He had been waiting for me all along.
During worship, I sensed Jesus calling me. It was not with thunder or lightning, but with a gentle invitation: “Come, and you will see.” I didn’t have all the answers. I didn’t even know what the next step looked like. But I said “yes.”
That simple “yes” became a turning point—a moment that changed everything. It was the beginning of a new path I never could have imagined. Looking back now, I see how that one encounter opened the door to healing. It brought purpose and a relationship with God that continues to grow deeper every day.
The Invitation Still Stands: A Personal Call to Follow
God still calls people to follow Him, just as He did then. That calling often begins with a simple invitation: Come and see.
If you’re feeling drawn to know Jesus more deeply, that’s not random. That’s the beginning of your calling. He knows your name, your story, and your potential—even if you don’t fully see it yet. He doesn’t just want you to believe in Him from afar. He wants to walk with you. He wants to shape you. He wants to call you into something far greater than what you imagined for yourself.
How This Speaks to Us Today
This passage reminds us of three powerful truths about our spiritual journey:
- God sees us deeply – He knows who we are now and who we can become in Him.
- Jesus invites us personally – not to observe Him from a distance, but to walk with Him and be changed.
- Our purpose is found in knowing Christ – and in sharing Him with others, just like Andrew did with Peter.
You may feel unknown or uncertain, but just like Peter, Jesus sees the “rock” within you. Your identity and future are secure in Him.
A Moment to Reflect
Pause for a moment and ask yourself:
- Is Jesus inviting me today to come closer?
- What step can I take to follow Him more personally?
- Who around me might be waiting for someone to say, “Come and see”?
A Simple Prayer
Lord Jesus,
Thank You for seeing me—not just for who I am now, but for who I can become in You.
Thank You for the invitation to walk with You and to know You personally.
Help me respond to Your call, and may I never grow tired of seeking You.
Like Andrew, give me the boldness to bring others to You, knowing that You can transform lives—including mine.
In Your name, Amen.
As I continue this pursuit of knowing God through the Bible, I invite you to come along. Let’s seek Him together. We seek not just for knowledge. We also aim to discover the identity, calling, and purpose He has for each of us.
📌 Have you ever experienced a “Come and see” moment in your life?
📌 What’s one step you can take today to follow Jesus more personally?
If this message speaks to your heart, I’d love for you to walk this journey with me. 👇 Share your thoughts, experiences, or prayer requests in the comments. Let’s grow together.
“Come, and you will see.” – Jesus (John 1:39)
Immanuel and Me 
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