HE (SAID) (TO) THEM, COME AND (you will) SEE.  (So) THEY CAME AND SAW WHERE HE (WAS STAYING), AND (they) (STAYED) WITH HIM THAT DAY: FOR IT WAS ABOUT THE TENTH HOUR (or four o’clock in the afternoon-JNT).



ONE OF THE TWO WHICH HEARD JOHN SPEAK, AND FOLLOWED (JESUS), WAS ANDREW, SIMON PETER'S BROTHER.










(ANDREW) (the) FIRST (thing) (he) (did was to) (FIND) HIS OWN BROTHER SIMON, AND (SAID) (TO) HIM, WE HAVE FOUND THE (MESSIAH), WHICH IS, BEING INTERPRETED, THE CHRIST (or “One Who has been anointed”-JNT).




































AND HE BROUGHT HIM TO JESUS.  AND WHEN JESUS (LOOKED AT) HIM, HE SAID, (YOU) (ARE) SIMON THE SON OF (JONAH): (YOU) (SHALL) BE CALLED CEPHAS, WHICH IS BY INTERPRETATION, A STONE (or Peter).
































THE DAY FOLLOWING JESUS WOULD GO FORTH INTO GALILEE, AND (FOUND) PHILIP, AND (Jesus) (SAID) (TO) HIM, FOLLOW ME.






Commentary Bible continues on pg. 209












































































NOW PHILIP WAS OF BETHSAIDA, THE CITY OF ANDREW AND PETER.

















PHILIP (FOUND) NATHANAEL, AND (SAID) (TO) HIM, WE HAVE FOUND HIM (the One), OF WHOM MOSES IN THE LAW, AND THE PROPHETS, DID WRITE, JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE SON OF JOSEPH.






































Commentary Bible continues on pg. 212





























































































































AND NATHANAEL SAID (TO) HIM, CAN THERE ANY GOOD THING COME OUT OF NAZARETH?  PHILIP (SAID) (TO) HIM, COME AND SEE.

































JESUS SAW NATHANAEL COMING TO HIM, AND (SAID) OF HIM, BEHOLD AN ISRAELITE (or true son of Israel-JNT) INDEED, IN WHOM IS NO GUILE (or deceit, or nothing false)!
























NATHANAEL (SAID) (TO) HIM, (HOW DO YOU KNOW-JNT) ME?  JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) HIM, BEFORE THAT PHILIP CALLED (YOU), WHEN (YOU) (WERE) UNDER THE FIG TREE, I SAW (YOU).














NATHANAEL ANSWERED AND (SAID) (TO) HIM, RABBI, (YOU) (ARE) THE SON OF GOD; (YOU) (ARE) THE KING OF ISRAEL.
















































JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) HIM, BECAUSE I SAID (TO) (YOU), I SAW (YOU) UNDER THE FIG TREE, (DO YOU BELIEVE) (all this)?  (YOU) (SHALL) SEE GREATER THINGS THAN THESE.



AND HE (SAID) (TO) HIM, VERILY, VERILY (or yes indeed) (or most assuredly), I SAY (TO) YOU (the truth), HEREAFTER (YOU) SHALL SEE HEAVEN OPEN, AND THE ANGELS OF GOD (GOING UP) AND (COMING DOWN) UPON THE SON OF MAN.































AND (on) THE THIRD DAY THERE WAS A MARRIAGE (or wedding) IN CANA OF GALILEE; AND THE MOTHER OF JESUS WAS THERE:

















AND BOTH JESUS WAS (INVITED), AND HIS DISCIPLES, TO THE MARRIAGE (or wedding).

































AND WHEN THEY (RAN OUT OF) WINE, THE MOTHER OF JESUS (SAID) (TO) HIM, THEY HAVE NO (more) WINE.














































(And) JESUS (SAID) (TO) HER, (Dear) WOMAN, WHAT HAVE I TO DO WITH (YOU) (or why do you involve Me-NIV, or what does your concern have to do with Me-NKJV)?  (MY) (TIME) IS NOT YET COME.























































HIS MOTHER (SAID) (TO) THE SERVANTS, (WHATEVER) HE (SAYS) (TO) YOU, DO IT.






























AND (nearby) THERE WERE SET THERE SIX WATERPOTS OF STONE, AFTER THE MANNER OF THE PURIFYING (or ceremonial washings) OF THE JEWS (or for the Jewish custom of purification-NASB), CONTAINING TWO OR THREE FIRKINS APIECE (or twenty or thirty gallons each-NASB).

JESUS SPOKE THE WORDS THAT HIS FATHER GAVE HIM TO SAY
WORDS JESUS SPOKE

   Jn 3:32-AND WHAT HE HATH SEEN AND HEARD, THAT HE TESTIFIETH; AND NO MAN RECEIVETH HIS TESTIMONY.  

    Jn 8:26-I HAVE MANY THINGS TO SAY AND TO JUDGE OF YOU: BUT HE THAT SENT ME IS TRUE; AND I SPEAK TO THE WORLD THOSE THINGS WHICH I HAVE HEARD OF HIM.

    Jn 8:40-BUT NOW YE SEEK TO KILL ME, A MAN THAT HATH TOLD YOU THE TRUTH, WHICH I HAVE HEARD OF GOD: THIS DID NOT ABRAHAM.

    Jn 15:15-HENCEFORTH I CALL YOU NOT SERVANTS; FOR THE SERVANT KNOWETH NOT WHAT HIS LORD DOETH: BUT I HAVE CALLED YOU FRIENDS; FOR ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE HEARD OF MY FATHER I HAVE MADE KNOWN UNTO YOU.

   THEY SAID (TO) HIM, RABBI, (WHICH IS TO SAY, BEING INTERPRETED, MASTER,) (or Teacher).  It can signify that by calling Him “Rabbi”, they showed a desire to be taught by Him.  The said to Jesus—

   WHERE (ARE YOU STAYING)?   In asking, “Where are you staying”, they seemed to indicate that they wanted to get to know Him better.  Little did they understand at this time that His real home was in heaven with the Father. 

   All born again Christians should want to lodge with Jesus everyday.  The verses continue—

   FOR IT WAS ABOUT THE TENTH HOUR (or four o’clock in the afternoon-JNT).  The Jews begin their day at night when they can first see 3 stars.  For normality we may say at 6 PM our time.  The daylight period then would begin approximately 6 am our time.  Thus the tenth hour would be 4 PM.  Some might relate this time to Roman time which would be 10 am.  The verses continue—

   SIMON PETER'S BROTHER.  Little did he know at that time, that his life would be changed for eternity.  Not only was he to become a disciple of Jesus, he would become an apostle.  During the millennium he, along with 11 other apostles will reign and rule over the twelve tribes of Israel as Jesus will reign on the earth as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  Andrew’s permanent residence thereafter will be in the city of God called New Jerusalem. 

   When a person repents and receives Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour, little do they initially realize how it will ultimately effect the rest of their life both now in this present world and life everlasting in the world to come.  The verses
continue—

   HIS OWN BROTHER SIMON.  Note, the very first thing he did and that was in his heart was to tell someone close to him that he loved about the wonderful news of finding the Messiah.  There is no mention that he did any such thing when he followed John Baptist.  Telling people about Jesus (the Christ, the only begotten Son of God) should be in the heart of all that truly find Jesus Christ, or it may be said, that Jesus finds them.  Andrew also brought a lad to Jesus which had five barley loaves and two small fishes about 28 months later-ref Jn 6:8,9.  The name of Andrew is mentioned about 13 times in the New Testament.  The verse continues—

   HAVE FOUND THE (MESSIAH).  Actually, it was Jesus that found and called them, but from their view point, it was they had found the Messiah, (or the Anointed One)—

   WHICH IS, BEING INTERPRETED, THE CHRIST (or “One Who has been anointed”-JNT).  As one reads this, one can sense the excitement Andrew must have had.  There is indeed, excitement in the hearts of one that truly finds Jesus and understands what it truly means.  Many claim they are saved, but there is no excitement, no running to tell others about Jesus, and no dedication to Christ.  The reason for that is evident.  They may have found religion, but not Jesus.  They may have found a comfortable church to attend with lots of nice people and activities, but not Jesus.  The Jesus that most find is not the Jesus of the Bible, but a remanufactured Jesus which is in a person’s evil imagination but not in their heart.  The Jesus that most people find is a Jesus that conforms to what they want to believe and what they think they need.  However, the Jesus of the Bible is a Jesus that tells each of us that we are to repent and conform to Him, to fear God, to obey Him, to surrender ourselves to Him, to deny self, and to love Him.

           Misc: James is always mentioned first. Only disciple mentioned that stood at the cross, yet allowed Peter to enter                    the tomb first. Cared for the mother of Jesus.  Asked Jesus, WILT THOU THAT WE COMMAND FIRE TO                    COME DOWN FROM HEAVEN, AND CONSUME THEM?-Lk 9:54.  The verses continue—

   Jn 1:42.              AND HE BROUGHT HIM TO JESUS.  Andrew went to find his brother and not only did he find him, but he brought him to Jesus personally.  One might ask you, who have you brought to Jesus?  The verse continues—

   (YOU) (ARE) SIMON THE SON OF (JONAH).  Jesus knew both Simon’s name and whose son he was.  Jesus knows all that are His whom His father gives Him.  It is reported that Simon meant obedient and that Jona meant a dove.  All born again Christians should have a dove like spirit that is obedient to Christ. 

   Unfortunately, to their own destruction, many people resist the calling that God has upon their life.  Many selfishly resist the transformation that God wants to do in their life to their own hurt and destruction.  Each of those that followed Jesus had a deep hunger for God.  Do you have that deep hunger for God?  How have you changed on the inside since Christ found you?

          Jesus was called that ROCK in 1 Cor 10:4.  The word rock is used approximately 13 times in the New Testament,
         however Peter is never referred to as the Rock (ref 4073-Petra—Strong’s concordance means a rock or mass of rock)

           Bible information: He wrote First and Second Peter.   

           Misc: Originally a disciple of John the Baptist.  Unpredictable.  Andrew led him to Jesus.  Andrew and Peter owned                a house together-Mk 1:29.  Was or had been married.  Note the words, SIMON’S WIFE’S MOTHER-Mk 1:30.               The  verses continue—

    JESUS WOULD GO FORTH INTO GALILEE.  Jesus now leaves the area that He was in (which was near where John the Baptist was baptizing in Judea).  He probably traveled in a somewhat northern direction near the Jordan river—

   AND (FOUND) PHILIP.  Jesus himself called Philip.  It was not the same as Simon that was led to Christ by another.  When He finds Philip—

   AND (Jesus) (SAID) (TO) HIM, FOLLOW ME.  That same message is to all that are called of God—follow Jesus.  Regretfully, in this lukewarm and misled generation, many seem to indicate that Jesus is to follow them.  Many seem to suggest that He is their servant and is to give them all the promises in the Bible and on their part little or nothing is required.  This is the first instance chronologically that Jesus used the words follow Me.  It is written:

   The words Follow Me appear in the New Testament about 19 times. 
   Mt 4:18-19, 21,22-AND JESUS, WALKING BY THE SEA OF GALILEE, SAW TWO BRETHREN, SIMON CALLED PETER, AND ANDREW HIS BROTHER, CASTING A NET INTO THE SEA: FOR THEY WERE FISHERS.  AND HE SAITH UNTO THEM, FOLLOW ME, AND I WILL MAKE YOU FISHERS OF MEN.  AND GOING ON FROM THENCE, HE SAW OTHER TWO BRETHREN, JAMES THE SON OF ZEBEDEE, AND JOHN HIS BROTHER, IN A SHIP WITH ZEBEDEE THEIR FATHER, MENDING THEIR NETS; AND HE CALLED THEM.  AND THEY IMMEDIATELY LEFT THE SHIP AND THEIR FATHER, AND FOLLOWED HIM.
   Mt 8:21-22-AND ANOTHER OF HIS DISCIPLES SAID UNTO HIM, LORD, SUFFER ME FIRST TO GO AND BURY MY FATHER.  BUT JESUS SAID UNTO HIM, FOLLOW ME; AND LET THE DEAD BURY THEIR DEAD.
   Mt 9:9-AND AS JESUS PASSED FORTH FROM THENCE, HE SAW A MAN, NAMED MATTHEW, SITTING AT THE RECEIPT OF CUSTOM: AND HE SAITH UNTO HIM, FOLLOW ME. AND HE AROSE, AND FOLLOWED HIM.
   Mt 16:24-THEN SAID JESUS UNTO HIS DISCIPLES, IF ANY MAN WILL COME AFTER ME, LET HIM DENY HIMSELF, AND TAKE UP HIS CROSS, AND FOLLOW ME.
   Mt 19:21-22-JESUS SAID UNTO HIM, IF THOU WILT BE PERFECT, GO AND (1) SELL THAT THOU HAST, AND GIVE TO THE POOR, AND THOU SHALT HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN: AND (2) COME AND FOLLOW ME.  BUT WHEN THE YOUNG MAN HEARD THAT SAYING, HE WENT AWAY SORROWFUL: FOR HE HAD GREAT POSSESSIONS.
   Mk 2:14-AND AS HE PASSED BY, HE SAW LEVI THE SON OF ALPHAEUS SITTING AT THE RECEIPT OF CUSTOM, AND SAID UNTO HIM, FOLLOW ME. AND HE AROSE AND FOLLOWED HIM.
   Mk 8:34-AND WHEN HE HAD CALLED THE PEOPLE UNTO HIM WITH HIS DISCIPLES ALSO, HE SAID UNTO THEM, WHOSOEVER WILL COME AFTER ME, LET HIM DENY HIMSELF, AND TAKE UP HIS CROSS, AND FOLLOW ME.
   Mk 10:21-24-THEN JESUS BEHOLDING HIM LOVED HIM, AND SAID UNTO HIM, ONE THING THOU LACKEST: GO THY WAY, SELL WHATSOEVER THOU HAST, AND GIVE TO THE POOR, AND THOU SHALT HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN: AND COME, TAKE UP THE CROSS, AND FOLLOW ME.  AND HE WAS SAD AT THAT SAYING, AND WENT AWAY GRIEVED: FOR HE HAD GREAT POSSESSIONS.  AND JESUS LOOKED ROUND ABOUT, AND SAITH UNTO HIS DISCIPLES, HOW HARDLY SHALL THEY THAT HAVE RICHES ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM OF GOD!…HOW HARD IS IT FOR THEM THAT TRUST IN RICHES TO ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM OF GOD!
   Lk 5:27-AND AFTER THESE THINGS HE WENT FORTH, AND SAW A PUBLICAN, NAMED LEVI, SITTING AT THE RECEIPT OF CUSTOM: AND HE SAID UNTO HIM, FOLLOW ME.
   Lk 9:23-25-AND HE SAID TO THEM ALL, IF ANY MAN WILL COME AFTER ME (or we may say if any man desires to come to Jesus to be saved by faith), LET HIM (1) DENY HIMSELF (which includes repentance), (2) AND TAKE UP HIS CROSS DAILY, (3) AND FOLLOW ME.  FOR WHOSOEVER WILL SAVE HIS LIFE SHALL LOSE IT: BUT WHOSOEVER WILL LOSE HIS LIFE FOR MY SAKE, THE SAME SHALL SAVE IT.  FOR WHAT IS A MAN ADVANTAGED, IF HE GAIN THE WHOLE WORLD, AND LOSE HIMSELF, OR BE CAST AWAY?  To loose one’s life is to totally and completely surrender it to Jesus in total trust-to deny oneself.  It is to conform to Jesus in all things-attitude, words, and what one does and how they act.  It can also mean to be martyred for Christ.  Those few that do this shall indeed save their life for eternity.  How few there are that have done this.  How few there are that meet the following: Ps 50:5-GATHER MY SAINTS TOGETHER UNTO ME; THOSE THAT HAVE MADE A COVENANT WITH ME BY SACRIFICE.  There is absolutely no profit or gain but only tragedy even if one gains the whole world, health, fame, notoriety, friends, family, and riches, but then afterwards spends eternity in the lake of fire. 
   Lk 9:59-62-AND HE SAID UNTO ANOTHER, FOLLOW ME. BUT HE SAID, LORD, SUFFER ME FIRST TO GO AND BURY MY FATHER.  JESUS SAID UNTO HIM, LET THE DEAD BURY THEIR DEAD: BUT GO THOU AND PREACH THE KINGDOM OF GOD.  AND ANOTHER ALSO SAID, LORD, I WILL FOLLOW THEE; BUT LET ME FIRST GO BID THEM FAREWELL, WHICH ARE AT HOME AT MY HOUSE.  AND JESUS SAID UNTO HIM, NO MAN, HAVING PUT HIS HAND TO THE PLOUGH, AND LOOKING BACK, IS FIT FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD.  No person being called of God to surrender, follow, and serve Him, is fit for the kingdom of God if they look back to this world.  Remember Lot’s wife.  You cannot serve and follow God and money.  You cannot serve and follow God and the world also.  The two are opposed to each other, so that a person that follows Jesus cannot any longer do and follow those ungodly things he once desired to do.  It is written, Gal 5:17-FOR THE FLESH LUSTETH AGAINST THE SPIRIT, AND THE SPIRIT AGAINST THE FLESH: AND THESE ARE CONTRARY THE ONE TO THE OTHER: SO THAT YE CANNOT DO THE THINGS THAT YE WOULD.Lk 18:22-NOW WHEN JESUS HEARD THESE THINGS, HE SAID UNTO HIM, YET LACKEST THOU ONE THING: SELL ALL THAT THOU HAST, AND DISTRIBUTE UNTO THE POOR, AND THOU SHALT HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN: AND COME, FOLLOW ME.
   Jn 1:43-THE DAY FOLLOWING JESUS WOULD GO FORTH INTO GALILEE, AND FINDETH PHILIP, AND SAITH UNTO HIM, FOLLOW ME.
   Jn 10:27-MY SHEEP HEAR MY VOICE, AND I KNOW THEM, AND THEY FOLLOW ME.  Those that repent, deny self, trust in and follow Jesus, they can hear God speaking to them.  With hearing also comes correctly discerning God’s voice and correctly discerning the devils voice which seeks to mislead a person.  These people do follow Jesus.
   Jn 12:26-IF ANY MAN SERVE ME, LET HIM FOLLOW ME; AND WHERE I AM, THERE SHALL ALSO MY SERVANT BE: IF ANY MAN SERVE ME, HIM WILL MY FATHER HONOUR.  Regretfully, there are those that do what appears to be the works of God.  They appear to serve God, yet they will not totally surrender themselves and follow Jesus.  You shall know them by their fruits.
   Jn 13:36-SIMON PETER SAID UNTO HIM, LORD, WHITHER GOEST THOU? JESUS ANSWERED HIM, WHITHER I GO, THOU CANST NOT FOLLOW ME NOW; BUT THOU SHALT FOLLOW ME AFTERWARDS.
   Jn 21:19-THIS SPAKE HE, SIGNIFYING BY WHAT DEATH HE SHOULD GLORIFY GOD. AND WHEN HE HAD SPOKEN THIS, HE SAITH UNTO HIM, FOLLOW ME.
He that has ears to hear, let him hear.  The verses continue—

   Jn 1:44.                      NOW PHILIP WAS OF BETHSAIDA.  It has been indicated that Bethsaida means the house of nets.  It is estimated that it was located a few miles northeast of Capernaum on the northern part of the Sea of Galilee.  Capernaum is on the northwestern part of the Sea of Galilee.  Jesus said of Bethsaida in Mt 11:21 (ref Lk 10:13)-WOE UNTO THEE,…BETHSAIDA! FOR IF THE MIGHTY WORKS, WHICH WERE DONE IN YOU, HAD BEEN DONE IN TYRE AND SIDON, THEY WOULD HAVE REPENTED LONG AGO IN SACKCLOTH AND ASHES.  Bethsaida was also—
   THE CITY OF ANDREW AND PETER.  Note that Philip, Andrew, and Peter were all from Bethsaida.  However, it appears they relocated to Capernaum sometime after-ref Mk 1:21,29.
   10.    Name: Philip (means-“lover of horses”).   
           Where from: Bethsaida-Jn 1:44; 12:21.   
           Misc: Philip found Nathanael and brought him to Jesus-ref Jn 1:45-51.  Jesus found Philip, and said, FOLLOW                       ME-Jn 1:43.  In another Scripture, Philip said, LORD, SHOW US THE FATHER, AND IT SUFFICETH US (or                 will be enough for us)-Jn 14:8.

   1.    Name: Andrew (means-“manly, conqueror”).
   5.    John * (means-"gift of God").
   9.    Name: Peter * (means-“stone; rock”)-Mt 16:18.
   10.    Name: Philip (means-“lover of horses”)  The verses continue—

   Jn 1:45.                     PHILIP (FOUND) NATHANAEL.  When a person truly finds the Christ (God who has come to the earth in human form) they should feel the need to tell the good news to their relatives and friends. 
   2.    Name: Bartholomew (means-"son of Tolmai").   
          Also known as: Nathanael-Jn 1:45-49.   
          Son of: Tolmai.   
         Where from: Cana in Galilee-ref Jn 21:2   
          Misc: Philip found Nathanael and brought him to Jesus-ref Jn 1:45-51.  Could have been of noble birth.  Jesus said                 AN ISRAELITE... IN WHOM IS NO GUILE (or nothing false)-Jn 1:47.  Was brought to Jesus by Philip-ref Jn                   1:45. He called Jesus the Son of God in Jn 1:49.  PHILIP FOUND NATHANAEL—
   AND (SAID) (TO) HIM,
   WE HAVE FOUND HIM (the One),
   OF WHOM MOSES IN THE LAW,
   AND THE PROPHETS,
   DID WRITE.  Philip’s words indicate that he had a good knowledge of the writings of Moses and the prophets.  Forecasts of the coming of the Messiah appear in many verses in the Old Testament.  Some are listed below:
   Deut 18:15-The LORD THY GOD WILL RAISE UP UNTO THEE A PROPHET FROM THE MIDST OF THEE, OF THY BRETHREN, LIKE UNTO ME; UNTO HIM YE SHALL HEARKEN.
   Deut 18:18-19-I WILL RAISE THEM UP A PROPHET FROM AMONG THEIR BRETHREN, LIKE UNTO THEE, AND WILL PUT MY WORDS IN HIS MOUTH; AND HE SHALL SPEAK UNTO THEM ALL THAT I SHALL COMMAND HIM.  AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS, THAT WHOSOEVER WILL NOT HEARKEN UNTO MY WORDS WHICH HE SHALL SPEAK IN MY NAME, I WILL REQUIRE IT OF HIM.
   There are many verses in the Old Testament that show the coming of the Messiah.  Listed here are but a few

Dan 9:24-26;
Deut 18:15,18,19;
Ex 12:46;
Isa 7:14, 9:6, 49:5-7, 50:6, 52:14, 53:1-12, 61:1,2;
Mic 5:2;
Num 9:12; Ps 2:7, 16:10, 22:1, 6-8, 34:20, 35:11, 41:9, 49:15, 69:21,
Daniel 7:13,14;
Zech 9:9, 12:10.

   Philip knew and understood the Law.  He recognized from these writings who the Messiah was.  He said to Nathanael that it was—
   JESUS OF NAZARETH,
   THE SON OF JOSEPH.  People in those days did not have last names as people today do.  They were often identified by the town or city they were from and by the name of their father.  Some might be identified by something they do such as John the Baptist.  Jesus is the name that was given to God’s Son by the angel of the Lord-ref Mt 1:20, 21.  The name means: HE SHALL SAVE HIS PEOPLE FROM THEIR SINS-Mt 1:21.  Jesus is also called Christ.  Christ means the Messiah-ref Jn 1:41.

   The word CHRIST is used in the New Testament approximately 555 times. 

   The Christ which was to come into the world came to be the saviour.  Lk 2:11-FOR UNTO YOU IS BORN THIS DAY IN THE CITY OF DAVID A SAVIOUR, WHICH IS CHRIST THE LORD.

   The Scriptures foretold that Christ world come from the lineage of David and out of the town of Bethlehem.   Jn 7:42-HATH NOT THE SCRIPTURE SAID, THAT CHRIST COMETH OF THE SEED OF DAVID, AND OUT OF THE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM, WHERE DAVID WAS?

   The Christ is the Son of God.  Jn 11:27-SHE SAITH UNTO HIM, YEA, LORD: I BELIEVE THAT THOU ART THE CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD, WHICH SHOULD COME INTO THE WORLD.

   Jesus Christ came to gave Grace and Truth.  Jn 1:17-FOR THE LAW WAS GIVEN BY MOSES, BUT GRACE AND TRUTH CAME BY JESUS CHRIST.

   Justification, redemption and salvation does not come through any way or any person except Christ Jesus.  Ro 3:24-BEING JUSTIFIED FREELY BY HIS GRACE THROUGH THE REDEMPTION THAT IS IN CHRIST JESUS.

   Justification is only through Jesus Christ.  Peace with God only comes through Jesus Christ.  Ro 5:1-THEREFORE BEING JUSTIFIED BY FAITH, WE HAVE PEACE WITH GOD THROUGH OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST:

   When a person truly finds Christ which also means the Messiah, his desire is to find his relatives and friends and help them also find Christ.  Jn 1:41-HE FIRST FINDETH HIS OWN BROTHER SIMON, AND SAITH UNTO HIM, WE HAVE FOUND THE MESSIAS, WHICH IS, BEING INTERPRETED, THE CHRIST.

   Again we see that the words Messiah and Christ are interchangeable.  Jn 4:25-THE WOMAN SAITH UNTO HIM, I KNOW THAT MESSIAS COMETH, WHICH IS CALLED CHRIST: WHEN HE IS COME, HE WILL TELL US ALL THINGS.

   Christ knows all things.  Jn 4:29-COME, SEE A MAN, WHICH TOLD ME ALL THINGS THAT EVER I DID: IS NOT THIS THE CHRIST? 

   God saves people through the Words of Christ, through the words of the Gospel.  Jesus Christ is the Saviour of the world.  Jn 4:42-AND SAID UNTO THE WOMAN, NOW WE BELIEVE, NOT BECAUSE OF THY SAYING: FOR WE HAVE HEARD HIM OURSELVES, AND KNOW THAT THIS IS INDEED THE CHRIST, THE SAVIOUR OF THE WORLD. 
   1 Cor 1:21-FOR…IT PLEASED GOD BY THE FOOLISHNESS OF PREACHING TO SAVE THEM THAT BELIEVE. 
   1 Cor 1:21-FOR AFTER THAT IN THE WISDOM OF GOD THE WORLD BY WISDOM KNEW NOT GOD, IT PLEASED GOD BY THE FOOLISHNESS OF PREACHING TO SAVE THEM THAT BELIEVE.  Ro 10:17-SO THEN FAITH COMETH BY HEARING, AND HEARING BY THE WORD OF GOD.

   The Word of God is what we are to preach.  Worldly stores about ourselves or others, while they sound nice, one can not stand one for faith.  The things that happened to Christ were fore told before they ever happened.  Acts 26:22-23-HAVING THEREFORE OBTAINED HELP OF GOD, I CONTINUE UNTO THIS DAY, WITNESSING…, SAYING NONE OTHER THINGS THAN THOSE WHICH THE PROPHETS AND MOSES DID SAY SHOULD COME: THAT CHRIST SHOULD SUFFER, AND THAT HE SHOULD BE THE FIRST THAT SHOULD RISE FROM THE DEAD, AND SHOULD SHEW LIGHT UNTO THE PEOPLE, AND TO THE GENTILES.

   The Gospel which we preach is of Christ.  Ro 1:16-FOR I AM NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST: FOR IT IS THE POWER OF GOD UNTO SALVATION TO EVERY ONE THAT BELIEVETH; TO THE JEW FIRST, AND ALSO TO THE GREEK.

   Anyone that does not have the Spirit of God inside them, is not saved.  A person can receive the Spirit of God only through faith (or trust) in Jesus Christ.  Christ is the end of the law for righteousness. Ro 8:9-BUT YE ARE NOT IN THE FLESH, BUT IN THE SPIRIT, IF SO BE THAT THE SPIRIT OF GOD DWELL IN YOU. NOW IF ANY MAN HAVE NOT THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST, HE IS NONE OF HIS.  Ro 8:10-AND IF CHRIST BE IN YOU, THE BODY IS DEAD BECAUSE OF SIN; BUT THE SPIRIT IS LIFE BECAUSE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS.  Ro 10:4-FOR CHRIST IS THE END OF THE LAW FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS TO EVERY ONE THAT BELIEVETH.  To believe—a total uncompromising commitment of love and obedience.  To believe is to trust.

   Everyone that is truly in Christ is part of one body, one family.  All are members one of another.  All are brothers and sisters in Christ.  All have one Father which is in heaven.  A person that is not of that body, of that group is not truly saved.  Ro 12:5-SO WE, BEING MANY, ARE ONE BODY IN CHRIST, AND EVERY ONE MEMBERS ONE OF ANOTHER. 

   If a person is truly saved, they are of the body of Christ and belong to Christ.  They do not belong to themselves for it is written.  Mk 9:41-YE BELONG TO CHRIST.

   Through the prophets in the Old Testament, it can be proven beyond any doubt that Jesus is the Christ.  Acts 9:22-BUT SAUL…CONFOUNDED THE JEWS…PROVING THAT THIS IS VERY CHRIST.  Acts 18:28-FOR HE MIGHTILY CONVINCED THE JEWS, AND THAT PUBLICKLY, SHEWING BY THE SCRIPTURES THAT JESUS WAS CHRIST.

   The world then as today hates Christ and accuses Him and His followers.  They see things or hear things which they do not understand, and then make up stories and come to false conclusions.  Then they begin to falsely accuse.  Lk 23:2-AND THEY BEGAN TO ACCUSE HIM, SAYING, WE FOUND THIS FELLOW PERVERTING THE NATION, AND FORBIDDING TO GIVE TRIBUTE TO CAESAR, SAYING THAT HE HIMSELF IS CHRIST A KING. 

   The world then as today wants to wipe out the name of Jesus Christ.  Those that follow Christ can expect many problems such as threats and jail.  The world does not want the name of Jesus and the truth to spread.  Acts 4:1-3-AND AS THEY SPAKE UNTO THE PEOPLE, THE PRIESTS, AND THE CAPTAIN OF THE TEMPLE, AND THE SADDUCEES, CAME UPON THEM, BEING GRIEVED THAT THEY TAUGHT…AND PREACHED THROUGH JESUS THE RESURRECTION FROM THE DEAD.  AND THEY…PUT THEM IN HOLD (or in jail).  The next day after being put in jail the apostles were threatened and warned to not preach in the name of Jesus.  Acts 4:17-18-BUT THAT IT SPREAD NO FURTHER…LET US STRAITLY THREATEN THEM, THAT THEY SPEAK HENCEFORTH TO NO MAN IN THIS NAME.  AND THEY CALLED THEM, AND COMMANDED THEM NOT TO SPEAK AT ALL NOR TEACH IN THE NAME OF JESUS.  However, the apostles did not obey.  Again they were put in prison but God rescued them.  Again they were confronted by the religious leaders.  Acts 5:28-SAYING, DID NOT WE STRAITLY COMMAND YOU THAT YE SHOULD NOT TEACH IN THIS NAME? AND, BEHOLD, YE HAVE FILLED JERUSALEM WITH YOUR DOCTRINE.  In these latter days, many false religions are now being accepted, even those that advocate violence, but the world wants to stamp out the teachings of Christ which offends people-ref Mt 11:6, 13:57, 15:12, 24:10, and Mk 6:3.  Then as today the world wants to stamp out the truth, the name of Jesus, the ten commandments and things related to these.  In these latter days of the last days, the stage is being set for the rise of the antichrist.

   Then, as today, rulers and high officials are against God and His Christ.  Acts 4:26-THE KINGS OF THE EARTH STOOD UP, AND THE RULERS WERE GATHERED TOGETHER AGAINST THE LORD, AND AGAINST HIS CHRIST.

   Even when he was dying on the cross, the people and rulers mocked Him.  Lk 23:35-AND THE PEOPLE STOOD BEHOLDING. AND THE RULERS ALSO WITH THEM DERIDED HIM, SAYING, HE SAVED OTHERS; LET HIM SAVE HIMSELF, IF HE BE CHRIST, THE CHOSEN OF GOD. 

   Christ was born to suffer and die on the cross to pay the sin debt for all that would trust in Him.  This was fore told in the Scriptures by Moses and the prophets.  As Christ suffered, so do those that follow Him.  As Christ was and is hated, so are those that truly follow Him.  Lk 24:26, 27-OUGHT NOT CHRIST TO HAVE SUFFERED THESE THINGS, AND TO ENTER INTO HIS GLORY?  AND BEGINNING AT MOSES AND ALL THE PROPHETS, HE EXPOUNDED UNTO THEM IN ALL THE SCRIPTURES THE THINGS CONCERNING HIMSELF. Lk 24:46-AND SAID UNTO THEM, THUS IT IS WRITTEN, AND THUS IT BEHOVED CHRIST TO SUFFER, AND TO RISE FROM THE DEAD THE THIRD DAY  Jn 15:20, 21-REMEMBER THE WORD THAT I SAID UNTO YOU, THE SERVANT IS NOT GREATER THAN HIS LORD. IF THEY HAVE PERSECUTED ME, THEY WILL ALSO PERSECUTE YOU; IF THEY HAVE KEPT MY SAYING, THEY WILL KEEP YOURS ALSO.  BUT ALL THESE THINGS WILL THEY DO UNTO YOU FOR MY NAME'S SAKE, BECAUSE THEY KNOW NOT HIM THAT SENT ME.  Acts 3:18-BUT THOSE THINGS, WHICH GOD BEFORE HAD SHEWED BY THE MOUTH OF ALL HIS PROPHETS, THAT CHRIST SHOULD SUFFER, HE HATH SO FULFILLED.  Jn 15:25-BUT THIS COMETH TO PASS, THAT THE WORD MIGHT BE FULFILLED THAT IS WRITTEN IN THEIR LAW, THEY HATED ME WITHOUT A CAUSE.

   The Scriptures fore told of the resurrection.  Acts 2:31-HE SEEING THIS BEFORE SPAKE OF THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST, THAT HIS SOUL WAS NOT LEFT IN HELL, NEITHER HIS FLESH DID SEE CORRUPTION.

   If a person truly finds Christ, (of we may say Christ finds them), they will give their lives for Him.  Of the 12 apostles, it appears that 11 were martyred.  As Jesus was, so are those in this world that follow Him.  Many missionaries these days, which you may seldom hear about, are being killed.  It is written in Acts 15:26-MEN THAT HAVE HAZARDED THEIR LIVES FOR THE NAME OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.  The verses continue—

   Jn 1:46.                      AND NATHANAEL SAID (TO) HIM,
CAN THERE ANY GOOD THING
COME OUT OF NAZARETH?  Initially skepticism or doubts came into Nathanael’s thoughts.  The reason for those doubts was because the town of Nazareth was mentioned.  This is a familiar tactic Satan uses in our thoughts-ref Gen 3:1 when there is something we do not understand, or some prejudices and wrong thinking enters our minds.
   The Old Testament indicates that the Messiah should come out of Judah-ref Mic 5:2, and Bethlehem-ref Mic 5:2.  No mention is made regarding the Messiah coming out of Nazareth. 
   As one looks back regarding all the apostles, Nathanael, perhaps more than any other, displayed doubts regarding Jesus being the Messiah initially. 

   This town is of such little significance, that it does not appear to be mentioned in the Old Testament.  It is reported that Nazareth, in the Galilee, had a bad reputation.  It appears that Roman troops were stationed there and there were collaborators among the people.  Among other people in the Galilee, Nazareth was looked down on.  Also among the chief priests and Pharisees, Galilee itself was looked down on-ref Jn 7:52.  Paul was spoken about in contempt in Acts 24:5 being accused of being a ringleader of the cult or sect of the Nazarenes.  About 34 months later, in Jn 7:52, even the Pharisees said: SEARCH, AND LOOK: FOR OUT OF GALILEE ARISETH NO PROPHET. 

   Without the Holy Spirit granting a person understanding of God’s Word in their heart, plus repentance,
   and without a person having a good, or good and honest heart after hearing and understanding, God’s Word
   the most a person can ultimately attain is being religious but without being truly born again through Jesus Christ.
   Such a person cannot bring forth fruit to perfection with patience, that remains—some thirtyfold, some sixtyfold and some an hundredfold. 
   Such people, at the most, can only understand, believe, or bear fruit for a time, but then fall, or wither away, or are choked as Satan uses various devices of this world or things in their hearts to deceive, entice, or scare them-ref Mt 13; Mk 4; Lk 8.
   What a horrible end it is for people as Satan is able to sake away God’s Word that was sown in their hearts.
   What a tragedy it is when God tugs on a person’s heart to come and see, but the person refuses.
   The verse continues—
   PHILIP (SAID) (TO) HIM, COME AND SEE.  It appears that Philip did not know how to answer Nathanael.  Thus, he answered him with the words, “Come and see.”  It appears Nathaniel followed Philip.  He went to see for himself.  Little could he have understood that he would surrender his life to Jesus Christ and would one day reign with Jesus-ref 2 Tim 2:12; Rev 5:10, 20:6, 22:5.  Little do people understand 1 Cor 2:9-AS IT IS WRITTEN, EYE HATH NOT SEEN, NOR EAR HEARD, NEITHER HAVE ENTERED INTO THE HEART OF MAN, THE THINGS WHICH GOD HATH PREPARED FOR THEM THAT LOVE HIM.The verses continue—

   Jn 1:47.                       JESUS SAW NATHANAEL
   COMING TO HIM,
   AND (SAID) OF HIM,
   BEHOLD AN ISRAELITE (or true son of Israel-JNT) INDEED,
   IN WHOM IS NO GUILE (or deceit, or nothing false)!  These words Jesus did not appear to say to Nathaniel but spoke “of” him to those that were with him already.  Yet it appears Nathanael heard him.  Jesus knew exactly what to say to erase Nathanael’s doubts. 
   Jesus said …AN ISRAELITE...IN WHOM IS NO GUILE (or nothing false)-Jn 1:47.  Jesus in no way relates that Nathanael was without sin.  Rather, this seems to indicate that Nathanael was a sincere and honest person.  This is the way Jesus would have us all be.  He was not deceitful.  It is written: Ro 2:29-BUT HE IS A JEW, WHICH IS ONE INWARDLY; AND CIRCUMCISION IS THAT OF THE HEART, IN THE SPIRIT, AND NOT IN THE LETTER; WHOSE PRAISE IS NOT OF MEN, BUT OF GOD.
   Nathanael should have been a person of few words, straight forward, totally open and honest, and without ulterior or hidden motives, schemes, or excuses.  Does this description fit you?  Often people do not say what they really mean.  They hide certain things.  Someone may come to a certain person’s house to see their new baby, but they say they came to get some salt.  They have deceptive motives.  People often cover up their real intentions by saying something slightly misleading, yet appearing to be sincere.  When asked a question they may not lie, but neither do they give the whole truth and nothing but the truth.  There is deception in their hearts.  People make excuses to justify things they shouldn’t have done.  Some say hurtful things to others because they are angry or they give them compliments they might not otherwise do to gain their favor or attention.  There is deceit in their hearts.  Nathanael did not try to make himself out to be anything other than what he truly was.  There are few people indeed that can honestly examine themselves by God’s Word without making alibis.  It is a rare person indeed that can quietly, receive correction as a little child, and repent-ref Mt 18:3.  Jacob (who became Israel) was known for his subtilty (or deception or trickery)-ref Gen 27:35,36.  Jesus, in saying that there was nothing false or deceitful in Nathanael, may have been saying this is the way a true Israelite ought to be.  We may ask this question of “you”-how does Jesus characterize you? 
   Regarding the name Israel, it is written ref Gen 32:28-THY NAME SHALL BE CALLED NO MORE JACOB, BUT ISRAEL: FOR AS A PRINCE HAST THOU POWER WITH GOD AND WITH MEN, AND HAST PREVAILED.
   The verses continue—

   Jn 1:48.                        NATHANAEL (SAID) (TO) HIM,
   (HOW DO YOU KNOW-JNT) ME?  Nathanael appears to have been startled by what he heard Jesus say—
   JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) HIM,
   BEFORE THAT PHILIP CALLED (YOU),
   WHEN (YOU) (WERE) UNDER THE FIG TREE, I SAW (YOU).  Note, Jesus said, When you were under the fig tree. It appears that Jesus had knowledge of Nathanael being under a fig tree that no one else could have known.  It effected him deeply.  Jesus appears to have been exercising the gifts of the Spirit.  The words Jesus spoke reveal His divinity. 
   Nathanael’s heart had been prepared beforehand by God for this very time.
  The term “under the fig tree” can denote a time to relax and a time of safety.  Note 1 Ki 4:25-AND JUDAH AND ISRAEL DWELT SAFELY, EVERY MAN UNDER HIS VINE AND UNDER HIS FIG TREE.  Mic 4:4-BUT THEY SHALL SIT EVERY MAN UNDER HIS VINE AND UNDER HIS FIG TREE; AND NONE SHALL MAKE THEM AFRAID.  Also ref Zech 3:10. 
   Many people think they can hide things from God, but the Scriptures assure us that He knows all things.  It is written: Ps 139:2-4-THOU KNOWEST MY DOWNSITTING AND MINE UPRISING, THOU UNDERSTANDEST MY THOUGHT AFAR OFF.  THOU COMPASSEST MY PATH AND MY LYING DOWN, AND ART ACQUAINTED WITH ALL MY WAYS.  FOR THERE IS NOT A WORD IN MY TONGUE, BUT, LO, O LORD, THOU KNOWEST IT ALTOGETHER.
   The fact that Jesus knew about Nathanael being under the fig tree affected him so much that—

   Jn 1:49.                        NATHANAEL ANSWERED AND (SAID) (TO) HIM,
   RABBI, (YOU) (ARE) THE SON OF GOD.  Note, he called Jesus Christ “THE SON OF GOD”, not “a” son of God.
   In Lk 1:35 about 31 years previously, the angel had used these words when speaking to Mary.  In Mt 4:3 and 4:6 about 3 weeks earlier, Satan had used these words.  In Jn 1:34, just a few days earlier, John Baptist had used these words.  The Old Testament tells us in Ps 2:7-I WILL DECLARE THE DECREE: THE LORD HATH SAID UNTO ME, THOU ART MY SON; THIS DAY HAVE I BEGOTTEN THEE.  Ps 2:12-KISS THE SON, LEST HE BE ANGRY, AND YE PERISH FROM THE WAY, WHEN HIS WRATH IS KINDLED BUT A LITTLE. BLESSED ARE ALL THEY THAT PUT THEIR TRUST IN HIM.   Also the millennium verse-Ps 72:1: GIVE THE KING THY JUDGMENTS, O GOD, AND THY RIGHTEOUSNESS UNTO THE KING'S SON.
   Nathanael is the first of those that would become apostles to use these words.  He also said—
   (YOU) (ARE) THE KING OF ISRAEL.  This is the first time the word’s KING OF ISRAEL are used in the New Testament chronologically.  They were also used by much people about 4 days before Jesus was crucified as He was entering Jerusalem-ref Jn 12:13..  These words were used mockingly by the chief priests, the scribes, and elders when He was hanging on the cross-ref Mt 27:42 and Mk 15:32. 
   Israel was not expecting the Messiah to be one that would die on the cross.  They were expecting Him to come and restore the kingdom to Israel and to reign as King of kings-ref Acts 1:6.  Israel at the time of Jesus was under Roman control.

   When Nathanael heard the words of Jesus, he saw THE SON OF GOD, THE KING OF ISRAEL.  When the religious leaders seen and heard Jesus, they seemed to see nothing—except one that was interfering with them that needed to be eliminated.  Such is the world today as they try to hinder and eliminate His Word as well as the ten commandments.  Why do people try to eliminate God’s Word?  It is written in Heb 4:12-FOR THE WORD OF GOD IS QUICK, AND POWERFUL, AND SHARPER THAN ANY TWOEDGED SWORD, PIERCING EVEN TO THE DIVIDING ASUNDER OF SOUL AND SPIRIT, AND OF THE JOINTS AND MARROW, AND IS A DISCERNER OF THE THOUGHTS AND INTENTS OF THE HEART.  When some people hear God’s Word they can react with hate and bitterness.  Some tremble at His Word.  Some begin to shake.  To some those that bring forth God’s Word, they ARE THE SAVOUR OF DEATH UNTO DEATH; AND TO THE OTHER THE SAVOUR OF LIFE UNTO LIFE-ref 2 Cor 2:16. 

   The term KING OF ISRAEL as applied to Jesus was used by the Angel, Nathanael, much people (Jews), the chief priests, scribes, and elders-all were Jews.  However when the chief priests and scribes used this term when Jesus was hanging on the cross, they did not use it openly as there were Roman soldiers near by.  They used this term only among themselves.  It might have been consider treason to use the term Israel or King of Israel, especially if they were overhead by the Romans.                   Regarding the Political structure, the governor Pilate and the soldiers used the term KING OF THE “JEWS”.  Israel as an independent state did not exist and had not existed for hundreds of years.  It was, at this time, under Roman control.  The superscription that was written by Pilate and put on the cross when Jesus was crucified was not the King of Israel but rather THE KING OF THE JEWS.  Pilate asked Jesus if he were the King of the Jews and other references-ref Mt 27:11, Mk 15:2,9,12.  The soldiers used the term King of the Jews mockingly-ref Mt 27:29, Mk 15:18, and Lk 23:37.
   When Jesus was accused before Pilate by multitudes, His accusers did not use the term King of Israel, but CHRIST A KING-ref Lk 23:1,2.  Jesus admitted he was a King born to this end-Jn 18:37.  The chief priests and multitudes obviously were afraid to use the term King of Israel when they accused Jesus and talked before the governor as they might have themselves been arrested-also note Jn 19:21.
   The term King of Israel is never used in the New Testament after Jesus was crucified, but it is used in the Old Testament during the Millennium-ref Isa 44:6.  Jesus, during the millennial reign, shall reign as the King of kings and Lord of lords-ref Rev 17:14.  David shall be the king of Israel and the 12 apostles shall judge the 12 tribes of Israel-ref Mt 19:28.
   The verses continue—

   Jn 1:50.                       JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) HIM,
   BECAUSE I SAID (TO) (YOU),
   I SAW (YOU) UNDER THE FIG TREE, (DO YOU BELIEVE) (all this)? 
   (YOU) (SHALL) SEE GREATER THINGS THAN THESE.  Jesus was probably referring to the many miracles He would do during the next 3 plus years.  He may also have been referring to the distant future as depicted in the next verse. 
   Jesus knew from the beginning who his apostles would be.  He knew who believed and who believed not.  He also knew who would ultimately betray Him-ref Jn 6:64.

   Jn 1:51.                        AND HE (SAID) (TO) HIM,
   VERILY, VERILY (or yes indeed) (or most assuredly), 
   I SAY (TO) YOU (the truth).  These words are used only in John’s Gospel.  They appear approximately 25 times.  These words were used by Jesus when He wanted to stress the importance of certain words.  Perhaps the best example of this in the 4 Gospels is Jn 3:3-JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) HIM, VERILY, VERILY (or yes, indeed), I SAY (TO) (YOU) (the truth), (UNLESS) A MAN BE BORN AGAIN (from above), HE CANNOT SEE THE KINGDOM OF GOD.  The very important words that Jesus spoke in this verse are these—
   HEREAFTER.  In other words, the events that Jesus is about to describe are at a later date.  HEREAFTER—
   (YOU) SHALL SEE
   HEAVEN OPEN.  These two words also appear in Rev 11:19.  Heavens opened appear in Mk 1:10 and Acts 7”56.  This is the first event.  Jesus continued by saying—
   AND THE ANGELS OF GOD (GOING UP)
   AND (COMING DOWN).  First the heaven opens, and then the angels of God will be seen going up and coming down—
   UPON THE SON OF MAN.  The time period referred to here is when Jesus Christ reigns and rules as the King of kings and Lord of Lords after He returns at the time of Armageddon.  This is immediately after the tribulation of those days.  Note the son of man commentary.

   The term “SON OF MAN is used approximately 92 times in the New Testament. 
   Jesus used the term SON OF MAN numerous times in each of the 4 Gospels when referring to himself.  This is the first verse in the New Testament chronologically that use these words.  This term is used twice in the Revelation by John.  Steven used this term just before he was killed.  The apostles, however, may have never used these words when referring to Jesus while He was alive on the earth. 
   Jesus was now telling Nathaniel the future.  At the time of Armageddon, immediately after the tribulation of those days, the heaven will open and Jesus Christ will return.  He will begin His reign on the earth as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  We call this the millennium-ref Rev 20:3-7.  It is at this time the events Jesus told Nathaniel he would see, shall begin to come to pass.  In telling Nathanael these words it reveals He knew in advance those that would become His disciples and Nathanael was one of them.  Note Rev 19:11 which takes place as Jesus returns at the time of Armageddon-AND I SAW “HEAVEN OPENED”, AND BEHOLD A WHITE HORSE; AND HE THAT SAT UPON HIM WAS CALLED FAITHFUL AND TRUE, AND IN RIGHTEOUSNESS HE DOTH JUDGE AND MAKE WAR.
   Some believe Nathanael might have been thinking about Jacob’s ladder when he was under the fig tree, thus prompting Jesus to tell of this futuristic event-ref Gen 28:11-13.  Gen 28:12-AND HE DREAMED, AND BEHOLD A LADDER SET UP ON THE EARTH, AND THE TOP OF IT REACHED TO HEAVEN: AND BEHOLD THE ANGELS OF GOD ASCENDING AND DESCENDING ON IT.  Jesus Himself is the way or ladder to heaven.  Some people try to climb up another way-ref Mt 22:12.  Jesus is also the ladder between God and man.  John Baptist (ref Jn 1:34) and Nathanael called Jesus Christ the Son of God.  Jesus referred to himself as the Son of man in Jn 1:51.





   Jn 2:1.                        AND (on) THE THIRD DAY.  This may have been the 3rd day after the meeting with Nathanael.  This would have allowed them time to walk to their next destination.  At that time—
   THERE WAS A MARRIAGE (or wedding).  The Scriptures do not give us any indication whose wedding it may have been.  Because Mary, Jesus and Jesus’ disciples were all invited, the marriage may have involved a close relative or friend.  The wedding took place—
   IN CANA OF GALILEE.  Cana is located only a few miles northeast of Nazareth.  Nathanael was also from Cana..  It is believed that the current town of Cana is near the original town.  It is reported that there was also another town named Cana in Asher, thus this Cana was referred to as Cana of Galilee.  The verse continues—
   AND THE MOTHER OF JESUS WAS THERE.  Such a wedding could last a week.  In John’s Gospel, the name of Mary, as relating to the mother of Jesus is never used.  It appears that the mother of Jesus had been there for some time, perhaps a day or more helping with the preparations. 

   A certain very misguided religion calls Mary—the mother of God.  The words Mother of God do not appear anywhere in the Bible.  Jesus Christ, who is God, has no mother-note Heb 7:3.  Jesus Christ who came to this earth in human form was fully God and fully man.  He is from everlasting to everlasting.  He does not have beginning of days, nor end of life.  She is not the mother of God.  She did not create God.  God created her and all things. The human body that Christ-the man child used while he was upon the earth is what Mary gave birth to.  She is the mother of Jesus, not the mother of God.  The verses continue—

   Jn 2:2.                         AND BOTH JESUS WAS (INVITED),
   AND HIS DISCIPLES.  At this time Jesus did not yet have all 12 of the apostles.  Those He did have were also invited.  This probably included the 5 that were already mentioned or alluded to in previous verses: Andrew, John, Peter, Philip, and Nathanael (also known as Bartholomew).  How they were all invited is unknown since His disciples had just joined him.  It may have been that He had stopped at Nazareth shortly before, and the invitation had gone out to Jesus and any and all that were with Him.  Nathanael was also from Cana.  These were all invited—
   TO THE MARRIAGE (or wedding).  Up to this time Jesus had done no miracles. 

   Marriage is of God.  Jesus was there and approved of marriage.  Living together, however, is not a marriage-ref Jn 4:16-18.  It is sin.  In addition, a person that is an obedient follower of God’s Word is only at liberty to marry someone in the Lord-ref 1 Cor 7:39.  A marriage consists of one woman and one man as it is written-Gen 2:23-24-she shall be called Woman,…Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife (not wives.  It is singular): and they shall be one flesh. 
   Such things as a man with a man or woman with a woman reveals a reprobate mind as it is written-Ro 1:21,22,24-32-THEY…BECAME VAIN IN THEIR IMAGINATIONS, AND THEIR FOOLISH HEART WAS DARKENED. …THEY BECAME FOOLS,…WHEREFORE GOD ALSO GAVE THEM UP TO UNCLEANNESS THROUGH THE LUSTS OF THEIR OWN HEARTS, TO DISHONOUR THEIR OWN BODIES BETWEEN THEMSELVES: WHO CHANGED THE TRUTH OF GOD INTO A LIE,…GOD GAVE THEM UP UNTO VILE AFFECTIONS: FOR EVEN THEIR WOMEN DID CHANGE THE NATURAL USE INTO THAT WHICH IS AGAINST NATURE: AND LIKEWISE ALSO THE MEN, LEAVING THE NATURAL USE OF THE WOMAN, BURNED IN THEIR LUST ONE TOWARD ANOTHER; MEN WITH MEN WORKING THAT WHICH IS UNSEEMLY, AND RECEIVING IN THEMSELVES THAT RECOMPENCE OF THEIR ERROR WHICH WAS MEET.  AND EVEN AS THEY DID NOT LIKE TO RETAIN GOD IN THEIR KNOWLEDGE, GOD GAVE THEM OVER TO A REPROBATE MIND, TO DO THOSE THINGS WHICH ARE NOT CONVENIENT; BEING FILLED WITH ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS, FORNICATION, WICKEDNESS,…BACKBITERS, HATERS OF GOD, DESPITEFUL,…WITHOUT UNDERSTANDING,…WITHOUT NATURAL AFFECTION, WHO KNOWING THE JUDGMENT OF GOD, THAT THEY WHICH COMMIT SUCH THINGS ARE WORTHY OF DEATH, NOT ONLY DO THE SAME, BUT HAVE PLEASURE IN THEM THAT DO THEM.
   Nevertheless, God in His mercy has saved people that were once homosexuals but repented as God gave them understanding.  They in return have been used by God as living witnesses to other homosexuals that mistakenly think they cannot change.  With God all things are possible.  The verses continue—

   Jn 2:3.                      AND WHEN THEY (RAN OUT OF) WINE.  It appears whoever had made the arrangements for the wedding, did not estimate how much wine would be needed. 
   Often certain situations do happen so that God’s will may be accomplished.  In this case—
   THE MOTHER OF JESUS.  Note, again the term “Mother of Jesus” is used, not mother of God (Note Jn 2:1).  The mother of Jesus—
   (SAID) (TO) HIM,
   THEY HAVE NO (more) WINE.  Up to this time, Jesus had done no miracles.  Why the mother of Jesus said this to Him or what she expected Him to do is unknown.  God undoubtedly put it in Mary’s heart to bring up the wine situation, thus setting up the conditions that He would perform His first miracle. 
   The Bible speaks against and condemns drunkenness but it does not speak against drinking wine in moderation, except in special situations.

   Regarding the subject of drinking, drunkenness or excessive drinking, it is written:
   Pv 20:1-WINE IS A MOCKER, STRONG DRINK IS RAGING: AND WHOSOEVER IS DECEIVED THEREBY IS NOT WISE.
   Pv 23:29-32, 34,35-WHO HATH WOE? WHO HATH SORROW? WHO HATH CONTENTIONS? WHO HATH BABBLING? WHO HATH WOUNDS WITHOUT CAUSE? WHO HATH REDNESS OF EYES?  THEY THAT TARRY LONG AT THE WINE; THEY THAT GO TO SEEK MIXED WINE.  LOOK NOT THOU UPON THE WINE WHEN IT IS RED, WHEN IT GIVETH HIS COLOUR IN THE CUP, WHEN IT MOVETH ITSELF ARIGHT.  AT THE LAST IT BITETH LIKE A SERPENT, AND STINGETH LIKE AN ADDER.  YEA, THOU SHALT BE AS HE THAT LIETH DOWN IN THE MIDST OF THE SEA, OR AS HE THAT LIETH UPON THE TOP OF A MAST.  THEY HAVE STRICKEN ME, SHALT THOU SAY, AND I WAS NOT SICK; THEY HAVE BEATEN ME, AND I FELT IT NOT: WHEN SHALL I AWAKE? I WILL SEEK IT YET AGAIN.
   Eph 5:18-AND BE NOT DRUNK WITH WINE, WHEREIN IS EXCESS.
   Nahum 1:10-FOR WHILE THEY BE FOLDEN TOGETHER AS THORNS, AND WHILE THEY ARE DRUNKEN AS DRUNKARDS, THEY SHALL BE DEVOURED.
   Hab 2:15-WOE UNTO HIM THAT GIVETH HIS NEIGHBOUR DRINK, THAT PUTTEST THY BOTTLE TO HIM, AND MAKEST HIM DRUNKEN ALSO.
   The Bible warns and condemns eating and drinking with the drunken
   Mt 24:49-51-(Those that) SHALL BEGIN…TO EAT AND DRINK WITH THE DRUNKEN; THE LORD OF THAT SERVANT SHALL COME IN A DAY WHEN HE LOOKETH NOT FOR HIM,…AND SHALL CUT HIM ASUNDER, AND APPOINT HIM HIS PORTION WITH THE HYPOCRITES: THERE SHALL BE WEEPING AND GNASHING OF TEETH.
   1 Cor 11:21-FOR IN EATING EVERY ONE TAKETH BEFORE OTHER HIS OWN SUPPER: AND ONE IS HUNGRY, AND ANOTHER IS DRUNKEN.
   Pv 20:1-WINE IS A MOCKER, STRONG DRINK IS RAGING: AND WHOSOEVER IS DECEIVED THEREBY IS NOT WISE.
   But know this-any drinking may put a stumbling block or offend thy brother in Christ or put a stumbling block in front of him.  Paul wrote in 1 Cor 8:13-WHEREFORE, IF MEAT MAKE MY BROTHER TO OFFEND, I WILL EAT NO FLESH WHILE THE WORLD STANDETH, LEST I MAKE MY BROTHER TO OFFEND.
   Luke’s Gospel tells us in 17:2-IT WERE BETTER FOR HIM THAT A MILLSTONE WERE HANGED ABOUT HIS NECK, AND HE CAST INTO THE SEA, THAN THAT HE SHOULD OFFEND ONE OF THESE LITTLE ONES.
   Regarding the judgment it is written Mt 13:41-THE SON OF MAN SHALL SEND FORTH HIS ANGELS, AND THEY SHALL GATHER OUT OF HIS KINGDOM ALL THINGS THAT OFFEND, AND THEM WHICH DO INIQUITY.   
   The verses continue—

   Jn 2:4.                      (And) JESUS (SAID) (TO) HER,
   (Dear) WOMAN.  Jesus did not call her mother, but rather woman.  Jesus continued by saying—
  WHAT HAVE I TO DO WITH (YOU) (or why do you involve Me-NIV, or what does your concern have to do with Me-NKJV)?  The manner in which Jesus spoke, sounds as if He is distancing Himself from this matter and from His mother.  He was no longer under the rule or authority of His mother or Joseph, but under submission and under the authority of His Father in heaven.  It is the voice of His Father in Heaven that Jesus must follow, not someone else.  A certain false religion, whose people are being led down the road to hell, should take note of this.  Mary is not and has never been a mediator between Christ and mankind. 
   This is further confirmed when His mother and family came and desired to speak to Him later on.  Jesus replied to those that brought the message—MY MOTHER AND MY BRETHREN ARE THESE WHICH HEAR THE WORD OF GOD, AND DO IT-ref Mt 12:46-50 and Lk 8:20,21.  And at another time when the Jews feast of tabernacles was at hand.  His brethren (brothers) tried to tell Him what to do.  Jesus would not obey them as He said GO YE UP UNTO THIS FEAST: I GO NOT UP YET UNTO THIS FEAST; FOR MY TIME IS NOT YET FULL COME-ref Jn 7:8.

   As a person would study the 4 Gospels, they should find that much which was said to Jesus by the unbelievers was wrong and out of the will of God.  There were many examples when His own disciples told Him or others what to do that was also wrong and out of the will of God.  Some examples of these are Mk 6:35,36-His followers wanted Him to send many people away.  They were wrong.  Mk 10:13,14-His followers wanted to stop the little children coming to Him.  They were wrong.  Mk 10:48-many of His followers told blind Bartimaeus to be still.  Again they were wrong.  In this lukewarm generation we now live, the ungodly advice that is given to the followers of Jesus by unbelievers and even other followers of Christ and carnal ministers abounds.  Obey God’s Word.  It needs to be said again-Obey God’s Word.  Also, Heb 13:17-(those whose faith and fruits testify that they are spiritual, God fearing leaders that labour in the Word and doctrine) OBEY THEM THAT HAVE THE RULE OVER YOU, AND SUBMIT YOURSELVES: FOR THEY WATCH FOR YOUR SOULS, AS THEY THAT MUST GIVE ACCOUNT, THAT THEY MAY DO IT WITH JOY, AND NOT WITH GRIEF: FOR THAT IS UNPROFITABLE FOR YOU.
   As the verse continues, Jesus went on to say—
   (MY) (TIME) IS NOT YET COME.  His mother would not have understood what He was talking about at this time.  Jesus’ ministry had already begun.  In saying these 6 words, He was speaking in the context that He was the Christ, rather than her son.  He ultimately was referring to the time He, the Lamb of God, would be offered up for the sins of all that would believe on Him.  Jesus appears to be telling His mother he was on His Father’s time schedule, not on hers.  Jesus Christ was on a predetermined schedule to the cross. 
   About 2 days before being hung on the cross Jesus said in Jn 12:23-THE HOUR IS COME, THAT THE SON OF MAN SHOULD BE GLORIFIED. 
   Just hours before being arrested in Jn 13:1-…JESUS KNEW THAT HIS HOUR WAS COME THAT HE SHOULD DEPART OUT OF THIS WORLD UNTO THE FATHER.
   Just before being arrested, Jesus in Jn 17:1-LIFTED UP HIS EYES TO HEAVEN, AND SAID, FATHER, THE HOUR IS COME.

   The mother of Jesus was not without sin as a certain denomination that masquerades as being Christian asserts.  Prayers to the virgin Mary are yet but another heresy of the largest—so called—Christian denomination.  Prayers to the virgin Mary to tell Jesus Christ what to do in heaven is unthinkable to those that understand God’s Word.  Many that study God’s Word little, who have little Godly, Biblical understanding, are easily misled, deceived, duped, and intoxicated or been made drunken with all kinds of unbiblical ideas and doctrines-ref Rev 17:2.
   The thief on the cross and many others did not turn to Mary.  They turned to Jesus.  The Bible clearly tells us to pray in the name of Jesus, not in the name of Mary or not through Mary.  There are none so blind than those that refuse to see.  Those that say they see, yet walk in darkness, how great is that darkness-ref Mt 6:23.  It is written:
   Jn 14:13-AND WHATSOEVER YE SHALL ASK IN MY NAME, THAT WILL I DO,
   Mt 18:20-FOR WHERE TWO OR THREE ARE GATHERED TOGETHER IN MY NAME, THERE AM I IN THE MIDST OF THEM.
   Jn 14:14-IF YE SHALL ASK ANY THING IN MY NAME, I WILL DO IT.
   Jn 15:16-WHATSOEVER YE SHALL ASK OF THE FATHER IN MY NAME, HE MAY GIVE IT YOU.
   Jn 16:23-VERILY, I SAY UNTO YOU, WHATSOEVER YE SHALL ASK THE FATHER IN MY NAME, HE WILL GIVE IT YOU.

   Jn 2:5.                         HIS MOTHER (SAID) (TO) THE SERVANTS,
   (WHATEVER) HE (SAYS) (TO) YOU, DO IT.  The words Mary spoke indicates that she had a certain amount of authority and influence at the wedding.  This again seems to indicate that the wedding was her close relatives or friends.  She also trusted her son in this situation and stepped aside.  The servants that may have come to her, she now directed them to Jesus and away from herself.  She communicated to the servants to do what Jesus said to do. 
   Mary, the mother of Jesus is mentioned several times after this including being at the cross and with the Apostles after Jesus had gone to be with His Father in Heaven.  However, these words in Jn 2:5-WHATEVER HE SAYS TO YOU, DO IT—are the last words recorded in the Bible that she spoke. 

   The name of Mary is never mentioned in the Old Testament, but is very common in the New Testament. 
   Mary, who was the mother of Jesus, is first mentioned chronologically in Lk 1:27.  (26)-AND IN THE SIXTH MONTH THE ANGEL GABRIEL WAS SENT FROM GOD UNTO A CITY OF GALILEE, NAMED NAZARETH, (27)-TO A VIRGIN ESPOUSED TO A MAN WHOSE NAME WAS JOSEPH, OF THE HOUSE OF DAVID; AND THE VIRGIN'S NAME WAS MARY.
   The mother of Jesus was present at the crucifixion.  Jn 19:25-NOW THERE STOOD BY THE CROSS OF JESUS HIS MOTHER, AND HIS MOTHER'S SISTER, MARY THE WIFE OF CLEOPHAS, AND MARY MAGDALENE.
   The last time Jesus is recorded speaking to His mother is in John 19:26-WHEN JESUS THEREFORE SAW HIS MOTHER, AND THE DISCIPLE STANDING BY, WHOM HE LOVED, HE SAITH UNTO HIS MOTHER, WOMAN, BEHOLD THY SON!
   The last time Jesus is recorded speaking about His mother is Jn 19:27-THEN SAITH HE TO THE DISCIPLE, BEHOLD THY MOTHER! AND FROM THAT HOUR THAT DISCIPLE TOOK HER UNTO HIS OWN HOME.
   She is last mentioned in Acts 1:14-THESE ALL CONTINUED WITH ONE ACCORD IN PRAYER AND SUPPLICATION, WITH THE WOMEN, AND MARY THE MOTHER OF JESUS, AND WITH HIS BRETHREN.
   Some other verses in Bible that use the name of Mary, who is the mother is Jesus are as follows:
   Mt 1:20; 2:11; 13:55; 27:56.  Mt 12:47; Mk 3:32; Lk 8:20; Jn 19:25, 27-Thy mother. 
   Mk 6:3; 15:40; 15:47; 16:1
   Lk 1:46; 1:56; 2:5; 2:16; 2:19; 2:34; 24:10
   The name of Mary as referring to the mother of Jesus does not appear to appear in John’s Gospel
   Acts 1:14
   The verses continue—

   Jn 2:6.                            AND (nearby)
   THERE WERE SET THERE SIX WATERPOTS.  Some denote the number six used here in relation to the number of man.  The six waterpots were—
   OF STONE.  The stone may represent the law which was written in stone ref Ex 24:12, 31:18, 34:1; Deut 5:22, 9:9-11, 10:4; 2 Cor 3:3.  Christ came to fulfill the law-ref Mt 5:17; Ro 2:28,29.  The emptiness of Judaism is fulfilled through the power of Christ as the waterpots were filled through His power.  The six waterpots of stone were—
   AFTER THE MANNER OF THE PURIFYING (or ceremonial washings)
   OF THE JEWS (or for the Jewish custom of purification-NASB).  These were man made customs-ref Mt 15:2-7.  Note        Mk 7:3-5-FOR THE PHARISEES, AND ALL THE JEWS, EXCEPT THEY WASH THEIR HANDS OFT, EAT NOT, HOLDING THE TRADITION OF THE ELDERS.  Mk 7:4-5-AND WHEN THEY COME FROM THE MARKET, EXCEPT THEY WASH, THEY EAT NOT. AND MANY OTHER THINGS THERE BE, WHICH THEY HAVE RECEIVED TO HOLD, AS THE WASHING OF CUPS, AND POTS, BRASEN VESSELS, AND OF TABLES.  THEN THE PHARISEES AND SCRIBES ASKED HIM, WHY WALK NOT THY DISCIPLES ACCORDING TO THE TRADITION OF THE ELDERS, BUT EAT BREAD WITH UNWASHEN HANDS?
   The six waterpots—
   CONTAINING TWO OR THREE FIRKINS APIECE (or twenty or thirty gallons each-NASB).  Firkins-definition Strong’s concordance—a certain standard measure of capacity for liquids.  Some estimate the total amount each could contain was 17 to 27 gallons or could have equaled up to about 150 gallons.  Note, that 150 gallons is a large amount.
   It has also been said that these waterpots were used regarding Jewish purification in regards to before and after meals. 


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