JOHN 1:35–42
THE FIRST DISCIPLES: “COME AND SEE”
Text – John 1:35–42
35 The next day John was there again with two of his disciples,
36 and as he watched Jesus walk by, he said, “Behold, the Lamb of God.”
37 The two disciples heard what he said and followed Jesus.
38 Jesus turned and saw them following him and said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which translated means Teacher), “where are you staying?”
39 He said to them, “Come, and you will see.” So they went and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day. It was about four in the afternoon.
40 Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, was one of the two who heard John and followed Jesus.
41 He first found his own brother Simon and told him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated Anointed).
42 Then he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon the son of John; you will be called Cephas” (which is translated Peter).
Historical and Jewish Context
This passage reflects the Jewish practice of disciples attaching themselves to a rabbi in order to learn not only his teaching but his way of life. John the Baptist, having fulfilled his role as witness, now directs his disciples away from himself and toward Jesus. The phrase “Behold, the Lamb of God” recalls sacrificial imagery familiar to Jewish listeners and immediately identifies Jesus as the awaited Redeemer. Addressing Jesus as “Rabbi” shows respect and recognition of authority. The question “Where are you staying?” goes beyond physical location and reflects the Jewish desire to know a teacher’s way of life and spiritual dwelling. The naming of Simon as Cephas echoes Old Testament moments where God changes a person’s name to signify a new mission and identity.
Catholic Theological Perspective
The Church sees in this passage the pattern of Christian vocation. Discipleship begins with witness, leads to personal encounter, and results in mission. Jesus’ question, “What are you looking for?” addresses the deepest desires of the human heart. His invitation, “Come and see,” is not an argument but an encounter. Andrew’s immediate response—bringing his brother to Jesus—reveals the missionary nature of authentic faith. The renaming of Simon as Peter signifies Christ’s authority to confer a new identity and mission, prefiguring Peter’s foundational role in the Church. Catholic theology recognizes here the beginnings of apostolic succession and ecclesial communion centered on Christ.
Parallels in Scripture
1 Samuel 3:10 – God calling Samuel to follow and listen.
Isaiah 2:3 – Invitation to come and learn the ways of the Lord.
Matthew 4:18–20 – The call of the first disciples.
Luke 5:1–11 – Simon Peter’s call and mission.
Acts 4:12 – Salvation found in Christ alone, whom the apostles proclaim.
Key Terms
Lamb of God – Jesus as the sacrificial Redeemer.
Come and see – Invitation to personal encounter with Christ.
Rabbi – Recognition of Jesus as Teacher and guide.
Messiah – The Anointed One awaited by Israel.
Cephas / Peter – The new identity and mission given by Christ.
Witness – Passing on faith through personal encounter.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This Gospel is frequently proclaimed in Ordinary Time and highlights the call to discipleship. The Church presents Andrew as a model of evangelization—one who brings others to Christ. The renaming of Peter is foundational for Catholic teaching on the papacy and apostolic leadership.
Conclusion
John 1:35–42 shows how faith is born and shared. A witness points to Christ, seekers respond, an encounter transforms lives, and mission follows. The first disciples do not keep their discovery to themselves; they bring others to Jesus, who gives them a new identity and purpose.
Reflection
What am I truly seeking in my relationship with Christ?
Have I accepted Jesus’ invitation to “come and see” and remain with Him?
Whom am I called to bring to Jesus through my words and actions?
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, You call me with love and invite me to remain with You. Open my heart to seek You sincerely, to know You more deeply, and to follow You faithfully. Like Andrew, help me to bring others to You, and like Peter, grant me courage to live the mission You entrust to me. Amen.