Use these for group work, or to assist your personal reflection.
- What does this passage of Scripture tell you and the members of your group, about what it means to be a disciple?
- What was it about Jesus that led Nathanael to change his mind about him and believe that He was indeed the ‘Son of God’?
- What would it mean to you to see a vision of angels ascending and descending? What does this vision mean?
Jesus Christ, You have given me so much. You have given me life, friends, family, work, and more things than I can possibly count or write down. However, I can hardly give you back anything of such great value, so I give you my life. This is all I can give, and I ask that You use me to do Your work, and I ask that I may be fulfilled in doing whatever you want me to do. Thank You, Jesus Christ: AMEN
Topis covered by this text
- Becoming a disciple
- The power of Jesus to see true character
- The importance of faith
Personal comments by author:
In this story, Jesus complements Nathanael, and this enables Nathanael to accept Jesus and perceive that He is indeed the ‘Son of God’. It is important for us to remember that Jesus is just and true; He will complement us for the good things He sees within us and He will challenge us about what is wrong. Now, we are used to believing that Jesus will reveal what is wrong in our lives, but can we take His compliments? Can we gain a true and godly perspective of what is right and well as what is wrong in our lives? I am sure that Jesus wants us to both hear His criticisms but also acknowledge His praise.
Ideas for exploring discipleship
- Look back over the last year, and assess what has gone wrong in your relationship with the Lord, and what has gone right. Try to be realistic, and let the Lord speak to you about both things so that you gain a godly perspective on your life as you face the coming year.
- Pray for your own church and its fellowship. Pray that you will be able to play a positive role in its life in the coming year, according to the gifts and graces God has given you.
Please refer to the general advice on the page ‘discipleship challenges’
The notes below are offered to help you think about the challenges of God’s Word. Read the notes and suggestions below, but don’t try to follow through any more than one thing at any one time!