Not every call to discipleship looks the same. Some require more patience and a willingness to work through underlying thoughts, questions, or even resistance. Along the way, we will encounter situations that challenge how we see others. In those moments, our focus must remain on the Lord and on sharing His truth.
In John 1:43–49, we read of the calling of Philip and Nathanael (Bartholomew). Philip’s call mirrors that of Peter, James, Andrew, John, and Matthew—Jesus simply says, “Follow Me,” and they do. But Nathanael’s experience unfolds differently, reminding us that while the call is the same, the journey toward discipleship can vary.
When Philip tells Nathanael that they have found the One Moses and the prophets wrote about, Jesus of Nazareth, Nathanael responds, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” His words reflect a preconceived judgment based on place and reputation. Nazareth was not known for significance in Israel’s religious, social, or historical life. From a human perspective, it seemed unlikely that anything important could come from there.
If we are honest, we have seen this before. People are often judged by how they look, how they speak, what they wear, where they are from, or what others have said about them. Sometimes, we may form opinions about others simply because they are different from us.
Yet Nathanael, despite his skepticism, still went to see Jesus. And when Jesus saw him, He said, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit.” Jesus did not confront Nathanael’s bias head-on; instead, He spoke to his heart and affirmed the truth of who he was. In doing so, He broke through the very stereotype that could have kept Nathanael from following Him. With truth, love, and understanding, Jesus drew Nathanael in and opened his eyes to who He truly is—the Son of God, the King of Israel.
This is where discipleship becomes real. If we are going to be fishers of men, we must be willing to meet people where they are, even when their perspectives differ from our own. We are not called to argue people out of their assumptions, but to reflect Christ in such a way that hearts are opened, barriers are lowered, and people are drawn to follow Him. Some will come ready, like Philip. Others may come with questions, doubts, or even bias, like Nathanael.
Let us show that same love, compassion, and understanding in our conversations with others. When we do, the light of Jesus in us may be the very thing that opens their eyes to see Christ, and follow Him.
