John 1:38-39 38And when Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, “What are you seeking?” And they said to him, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?” 39He said to them, “Come and you will see.” Then they came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour.
The first words Jesus speaks in this Gospel are a powerful and inviting question. John may have written these words with more intention that simply providing a narrative of the first followers of Jesus. The two disciples of John the Baptist were looking for something. That is why they went out to follow him. Only either sincere, curious, or questioning people would make the effort to seek out John and then continue to follow him as his disciples.
The author John is not concerned with all the details of this event or the specific calling of the disciples as recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. This is the first encounter several of them had with Jesus. It may be that they all moved to Galilee where Jesus then called them to be his followers.
Their response indicates a bit of awkwardness. They had an opportunity to ask questions right on the spot, but perhaps they wanted a more intimate and longer time to dialogue with Jesus. The best option was to spend more time with him. They were curious and seeking the truth, which may be why they addressed Jesus as Rabbi. This term was a form of respect for an honored teacher. They knew even at the beginning that there was something special about Jesus.
Jesus’ second response is also a significant invitation. The best way to get to know Jesus is to go be with him. These followers of John had a unique opportunity we do not have to be physically present with Jesus in fellowship and conversation. They were able to spend the afternoon and evening with him. These verses give more than just the setting of a story. In the context of John’s gospel, they serve as an invitation to the reader to find out more about this Jesus. Who is this person whom John the Baptist called the Lamb of God?
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