The First Disciples
Introduction
In John 1:35–51, we see the very beginning of Jesus’ ministry as ordinary people take their first steps toward following Him. What starts with a simple invitation “Come and see", quickly becomes a life-changing encounter. This message reminds us that every movement of God has a beginning, and following Jesus often starts with a single step of obedience. As the first disciples discover who He is, we’re invited to ask ourselves the same question: will we follow Him too?
Discussion Questions
Outline
I. To Come and See. John 1:35-39
· Until you take responsibility for your faith, you follow a blind faith given to you by someone else.
II. To Follow Him. John 1:40-44
· The process of transformation is critical to every believer’s life, because it’s through this process that we become who God designed us to be.
III. To See Greater Things. John 1:45-51
· When someone follows Jesus and is transformed by God, their perception shifts and their eyes are opened to things hidden to those who are not saved.
Study Questions
1. Have you ever bought something because someone told you it was amazing only to discover it wasn’t nearly as great as they claimed? Or maybe the opposite…something you tried reluctantly that turned out to be incredible?
2. Read John 1:35–39. When Jesus asks the disciples, “What are you looking for?” what do you think they were really searching for? What kinds of things do people look for today that they hope will satisfy their lives?
3. Jesus responds to their curiosity by saying, “Come and see.” Why do you think Jesus invites people to discover the truth about Him rather than forcing belief or demanding blind faith? Why is blind or inherited faith dangerous?
4. Andrew quickly goes and brings his brother Simon to Jesus (John 1:40–42). What this does teach us about how people most often come to faith? Why is that important for us today?
5. In John 1:43 Jesus tells Philip, “Follow me.” Following Jesus is about a transforming relationship with God, not just receiving forgiveness or eternal life. How does that change the way we think about salvation and the Christian life? How can over-emphasizing the wrong thing be dangerous?
6. In John 1:47–51 Jesus promises Nathanael that he will “see greater things.” Pastor Keven explained that following Jesus opens our eyes to deeper spiritual realities and the work of God’s kingdom. Have you ever experienced a moment where your understanding of God, faith, or life suddenly became clearer? Have you experienced something spiritual that was unexplainable?
7. CALL TO ACTION: Memorize Daniel 2:22. Share with a friend where you sense God calling you now. Are you being invited to come and see, follow, or to discover greater things? Share with someone a deep spiritual experience you’ve had that you can’t explain.