John 1 summary meaning ai explained commentary

John 1 meaning explained in AI Summary

The Gospel of John opens with a profound theological statement. It introduces Jesus not simply as a great teacher or prophet, but as the eternal Word who has always existed in perfect unity with God the Father. This Word, the source of life and light, became flesh and dwelt among humanity in the person of Jesus Christ (John 1:1-4). John the Baptist, a forerunner figure, proclaims Jesus as the "Lamb of God" who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). This opening chapter establishes the central theme of Jesus' divinity and his role as the Messiah sent to redeem humanity.

John 1 sets the stage for the entire Gospel, introducing Jesus as the divine Word of God who became flesh.

Key Points:

The Word was God: The chapter opens with a powerful declaration of Jesus' pre-existence and divinity. He is "the Word" who was with God in the beginning and is himself God (verses 1-2).
Creation and Life: John emphasizes that everything was created through the Word, and in Him was life, the light of all mankind (verses 3-5).
John the Baptist's Testimony: John the Baptist, a key witness, appears, not as the Light, but to testify about the true Light, Jesus (verses 6-9, 15).
The Word Became Flesh: The central proclamation of the chapter is that the Word, the divine Son of God, became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth (verses 10-14).
Grace Upon Grace: Through Jesus, we receive grace upon grace, surpassing the Law given through Moses (verse 16-17).
Witnessing to Jesus: John the Baptist continues to testify about Jesus' identity, declaring Him the Lamb of God and the Son of God (verses 19-34).
First Disciples: The chapter concludes with the calling of the first disciples, Andrew and (implicitly) John, who recognize Jesus as the Messiah (verses 35-51).

Overall Message:

John 1 establishes Jesus as the divine Son of God, the creator and sustainer of life, who came to dwell among us, full of grace and truth. He is the fulfillment of the Old Testament promises and the only source of salvation.

John 1 bible study ai commentary

John 1 presents the grand unveiling of Jesus Christ's identity and mission. It begins with a theological prologue establishing His eternal divinity, His role as the creative Logos (Word), and His incarnation as the ultimate revelation of God to humanity. This is followed by the powerful, confirmatory testimony of John the Baptist and the gathering of the first disciples, who progressively recognize Jesus through a series of messianic titles, culminating in His self-declaration as the link between heaven and earth. The chapter’s core theme is the revelation of God in the person of Jesus Christ, authenticated by credible witness.

John 1 context

John's Gospel was likely written in the late first century (c. 85-95 AD) to a diverse audience of Jews and Greek-speaking Gentiles. It operates on a high theological and philosophical plane. The author strategically uses the Greek concept of the Logos (a term for the divine reason or ordering principle of the universe) to connect with his Hellenistic audience, while simultaneously grounding this concept in the Hebrew idea of the creative, powerful Word of God. The text engages in polemics against early Gnostic beliefs that denigrated the material world and denied that a divine being could take on true flesh, as well as clarifying the role of John the Baptist for followers who may have exalted him too highly.

John 1:1-2

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.

In-depth-analysis

In the beginning: Deliberately echoes Genesis 1:1, but pushes the timeline back. Before creation began, the Word already was (imperfect tense in Greek, implying continuous existence).
The Word (Logos): Greek: Logos. To Greeks, it was the impersonal rational principle ordering the cosmos. To Jews, God's Word was His active, creative power (Gen 1, Psa 33:6) and His revelation (the Torah). John fuses these concepts, personifying the Logos as Jesus.
Was with God: Greek: pros ton theon. Implies a face-to-face relationship. It indicates both intimacy and distinct personhood from God the Father.
The Word was God: Greek: theos ēn ho logos. A clear, unambiguous statement of divinity. The lack of a definite article ("the") before theos (God) does not mean "a god" but points to the Word's essential nature and quality—He shared the very essence of God.

Bible references

Genesis 1:1: 'In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.' (John intentionally starts his gospel by mirroring the first words of the Bible, establishing Christ's pre-existence before creation).
Colossians 1:17: 'And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.' (Reinforces Christ's pre-existence and sustaining role).
Proverbs 8:22-23: 'The Lord possessed me at the beginning of his work... Ages ago I was set up, at the first, before the beginning of the earth.' (Wisdom personified, paralleling the pre-existent Word).
1 John 1:1: 'That which was from the beginning, which we have heard... concerning the word of life—' (John's epistle begins with the same theme of Christ's eternal nature).

Cross references

Mic 5:2 (origin from antiquity), Heb 1:8-10 (calling the Son 'God'), Rev 19:13 (named The Word of God), Phil 2:6 (in the form of God).

Polemics

The phrasing directly refutes Arianism (which taught Jesus was the first and greatest creation) by stating He "was" in the beginning, not "created." It also lays the groundwork to counter Gnosticism by presenting the creator of the material universe as fully divine and good.

John 1:3

All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.

In-depth-analysis

This verse establishes the Word as the agent of creation. The Father is the source, but the Son is the instrument through whom everything comes into being.
The negative restatement "without him was not any thing made" is a common Semitic literary device for emphasis, leaving no ambiguity about Christ's universal creative role. Every single created thing owes its existence to Him.

Bible references

Colossians 1:16: 'For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible... all things were created through him and for him.' (The most direct parallel, outlining the scope of Christ's creative work).
Hebrews 1:2: 'but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son... through whom also he created the world.' (Identifies the Son as the agent of creation).
Psalm 33:6: 'By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, and by the breath of his mouth all their host.' (OT precedent for creation through God's "Word").

Cross references

1 Cor 8:6 (one Lord through whom), Gen 1:26 (plurality in creation), Psa 104:24 (all things made in wisdom).

John 1:4-5

In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

In-depth-analysis

Life: The Word is not just the agent of creation, but the source of all life, both physical and, more importantly, spiritual.
Light of men: Life in Him is revealed as "light," representing truth, holiness, revelation, and salvation. This light is universally available to humanity.
The darkness: Represents sin, ignorance, evil, and rebellion against God.
Has not overcome it: The Greek verb katelaben has a double meaning: "to overcome/quench" and "to comprehend/understand." Both are true. The darkness could neither extinguish the light nor grasp its true meaning. The ultimate victory of the light is assured.

Bible references

John 8:12: 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.' (Jesus' own claim, defining the meaning of this "light").
Genesis 1:3: 'And God said, "Let there be light," and there was light.' (The first creative act was light, here associated directly with Christ).
Psalm 27:1: 'The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?' (Equates the Lord God with light and salvation).
1 John 1:5: 'This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.' (Connects the nature of light directly to the nature of God).

Cross references

Joh 12:46 (came as light), Isa 9:2 (people in darkness see light), Eph 5:8 (once darkness, now light).

John 1:6-8

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light.

In-depth-analysis

A man sent from God: The narrative shifts from the eternal to the historical. John the Baptist's authority comes directly from God.
Witness: Greek: martyria. A key theme in John's Gospel. A witness gives testimony to a reality they have experienced. John's sole purpose was to point people away from himself and toward Jesus.
He was not the light: A crucial clarification. The author makes a direct, corrective statement, likely because some of John the Baptist's disciples continued to follow him exclusively, even after his death. His role was subordinate and preparatory.

Bible references

Malachi 3:1: 'Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me.' (Prophecy of the forerunner John fulfilled).
Isaiah 40:3: 'A voice cries: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord..."' (The prophecy John the Baptist will later use for himself in verse 23).
Acts 19:4: 'Paul said, “John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, in Jesus.”' (Shows the early church understood and taught John's preparatory role).

Cross references

Lk 1:76 (prophet of the Most High), Joh 3:28-30 (He must increase, I decrease), Matt 3:11 (one mightier than I).

John 1:9-11

The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him.

In-depth-analysis

The true light: Jesus is the genuine, ultimate reality to which all other "lights" (like John) merely point.
Gives light to everyone: Refers to general revelation or the universal availability of the light. God's truth has been made manifest in creation and conscience, even if it is rejected.
The world did not know him: The first great irony. The Creator entered His own creation, but His creatures, clouded by darkness, failed to recognize Him.
His own people did not receive him: The second, more painful irony. "His own" (ta idia) refers to his own place/domain (Israel), and "his own people" (hoi idioi) refers specifically to the Jewish people. The chosen nation, prepared for centuries, largely rejected their Messiah.

Bible references

Isaiah 53:3: 'He was despised and rejected by men...' (Prophesied the Messiah's rejection).
Matthew 23:37: 'O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets... How often would I have gathered your children... and you were not willing!' (Jesus laments this rejection by His own people).
Romans 1:19-21: 'For what can be known about God is plain to them... so they are without excuse... they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened.' (Explains how humanity ("the world") rejected the light of general revelation).

Cross references

Acts 3:14-15 (denied the Holy One), Joh 12:37 (did not believe despite signs), Lk 19:14 (citizens hated him).

John 1:12-13

But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.

In-depth-analysis

Receive him: This is the positive counterpoint to verse 11. Reception is synonymous with belief.
Believed in his name: To believe "in his name" is to trust in his entire person, character, and redemptive work.
Right to become children of God: Greek exousia (right, authority). This is not a natural state but a bestowed gift. We are not God's children by nature, but by adoption through grace.
Born... of God: This new birth is contrasted with three types of natural human generation (blood/ancestry, flesh/passion, man's will/planning). Salvation is a supernatural act, a spiritual regeneration initiated entirely by God.

Bible references

John 3:3: 'Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God."' (Jesus explains this spiritual birth to Nicodemus).
Galatians 4:4-5: 'God sent forth his Son... to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.' (Paul explains the doctrine of adoption).
Romans 8:15-16: 'you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, "Abba! Father!" The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.' (Describes the experience of being God's child).
1 Peter 1:23: 'since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God.' (Confirms the spiritual, non-physical nature of the new birth).

Cross references

Gal 3:26 (children of God by faith), 1 Joh 3:1 (love bestowed on us), Jam 1:18 (brought forth by word of truth), Eph 2:8-9 (saved by grace).

John 1:14

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

In-depth-analysis

The Word became flesh: The central statement of the Incarnation and the climax of the prologue. "Flesh" (sarx in Greek) denotes full, vulnerable humanity. The eternal, divine Word did not merely appear human; He became human.
Dwelt among us: Greek: eskēnōsen. Literally, "pitched His tent" or "tabernacled." This is a direct allusion to the OT Tabernacle where God's glorious presence (Shekinah) dwelt among His people. Jesus is the new, walking Tabernacle.
We have seen his glory: "We" refers to the eyewitness testimony of the apostles. This "glory" (doxa) was not always a visible aura, but was seen in His character, miracles, teaching, and ultimately, His transfiguration, crucifixion, and resurrection.
Grace and truth: The defining characteristics of Jesus' revealed glory. This phrase echoes the Hebrew hesed ve'emet (e.g., Exodus 34:6), God's covenantal loving-kindness and faithfulness. Jesus is the perfect embodiment of these divine attributes.

Bible references

Philippians 2:6-8: 'who, though he was in the form of God... emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.' (Paul's great hymn on the incarnation).
Exodus 40:34: 'Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.' (The OT type that Christ, the ultimate "tabernacle," fulfills).
Hebrews 2:14: 'Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things...' (Affirms Christ's full participation in humanity).
Exodus 34:6: 'The Lord... a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.' (The original revelation of God's character, which Jesus perfectly embodies).

Cross references

1 Tim 3:16 (great mystery of godliness), Rom 1:3 (descended from David by flesh), 2 Pet 1:16-17 (eyewitnesses of His majesty).

Polemics

This single verse is a direct and powerful refutation of two major heresies. Against Gnosticism, it affirms the goodness of creation by stating the divine Word took on real, material "flesh." Against Docetism, which taught that Jesus only seemed to be human, it declares He became flesh.

John 1:15-18

(John bore witness about him, and cried out, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.’”) For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father's side, he has made him known.

In-depth-analysis

v. 15: John's testimony is inserted here to underscore the pre-existence of the one who "became flesh." The paradox (coming after but ranking before) is solved by "he was before me" (prōtos mou ēn).
v. 16: Grace upon grace: An endless, abundant supply of God's unmerited favor. Not one grace replacing another, but grace piled on top of grace. "We all" refers to believers who draw from Christ's infinite supply.
v. 17: This verse does not pit law against grace, but shows progression and fulfillment. The Law from Moses was a gift of grace that revealed God's holy standard. "Grace and truth," the ultimate reality and the enabling power to meet that standard, came perfectly embodied in Jesus Christ.
v. 18: No one has ever seen God: States the transcendence and invisibility of God the Father in His pure essence.
The only God / only Son: There's a significant textual variant here. The best and earliest manuscripts read monogenēs theos ("the only God" or "the unique One, who is God"). Later manuscripts read monogenēs huios ("the only Son"). Both affirm Christ's deity and unique relationship with the Father. He is at the "Father's side" (or "in his bosom"), an image of supreme intimacy.
Made him known: Greek exēgeomai, from which we get "exegesis." Jesus is the living exegesis of God. To know Jesus is to know what God is like.

Bible references

Colossians 1:19: 'For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell.' (Defines the "fullness" from which we receive).
Exodus 33:20: 'But,” he said, “you cannot see my face, for man shall not see me and live.”' (The Old Testament statement that John 1:18 says is now superseded in Christ).
John 14:9: 'Jesus said to him... "Whoever has seen me has seen the Father."' (Jesus' own claim to be the perfect revelation of the Father).
Hebrews 1:1-2: 'Long ago... God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son...' (Contrasts past revelation with the final, perfect revelation in Christ).

Cross references

Rom 3:24 (grace as a gift), Rom 5:21 (grace reigns), Joh 17:6 (I have manifested your name), Col 2:9 (fullness of deity), 1 Joh 4:12 (no one has seen God).

John 1:19-28

And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” ... He confessed, ...“I am not the Christ.” And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.” ... He said, “I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’ as the prophet Isaiah said.”... “I baptize with water, but among you stands one you do not know, even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.”

In-depth-analysis

Testimony of John: This marks the beginning of the narrative section, focused on witness.
Jews sent priests and Levites: This was an official delegation from the Sanhedrin in Jerusalem, indicating John's ministry was significant enough to warrant investigation.
Series of Denials: John defines himself by what he is not:
1. Not the Christ (Messiah): The most important denial.
2. Not Elijah: He denies being the literal returning Elijah (as prophesied in Malachi 4:5), though Jesus later says he came in the "spirit and power of Elijah" (Matt 11:14).
3. Not the Prophet: Refers to the prophet like Moses promised in Deuteronomy 18:15.
Voice... crying in the wilderness: John identifies himself with Isaiah 40:3, a humble role of a herald announcing the arrival of the King, Yahweh Himself. By applying this to Jesus, he again implies Jesus' divinity.
Sandal I am not worthy to untie: Untying sandals was a task for the lowliest slave. John's self-assessment shows the immense gap he perceived between himself and the Messiah.

Bible references

Isaiah 40:3: 'A voice cries: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord..."' (The prophecy John quotes to define his ministry).
Malachi 4:5: 'Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and awesome day of the Lord comes.' (The basis for the question about Elijah).
Deuteronomy 18:15: 'The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you...' (The basis for the question about "the Prophet").
Matthew 3:1-3: The Synoptic Gospels also record John's identity as the voice from Isaiah 40.

Cross references

Lk 3:15-16 (John's denial), Act 13:25 (John pointing to another), Mar 1:7 (parallel account).

John 1:29-34

The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!... this is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.’... I saw the Spirit descend from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him... He who sent me to baptize... said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.”

In-depth-analysis

The next day: John begins a count of days, structuring the opening narrative like a "new creation" week.
Behold, the Lamb of God: This is one of the most significant titles for Jesus. It combines imagery of:
1. The Passover Lamb (Exodus 12), whose blood saved from judgment.
2. The Sacrificial Lamb from the daily temple sacrifices (Leviticus).
3. The Suffering Servant of Isaiah 53:7, who was "like a lamb that is led to the slaughter."
Takes away the sin of the world: A radical statement. Not just the sins of Israel, but the sin of the entire world, signaling the universal scope of Christ's atonement.
Spirit descend like a dove: The sign that confirmed Jesus' identity to John. The dove is symbolic of peace and new creation (cf. Gen 8:11). The Spirit remaining on him signifies a permanent anointing, unlike the temporary anointing of OT prophets.
Baptizes with the Holy Spirit: This contrasts John's preparatory water baptism with Jesus' superior, reality-bestowing work of giving the Spirit.
Son of God: John's testimony culminates in this supreme declaration of Jesus' unique identity.

Bible references

Isaiah 53:7: 'He was oppressed... like a lamb that is led to the slaughter...' (Key prophecy of the suffering servant).
Exodus 12:7, 13: 'They shall take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts... And when I see the blood, I will pass over you.' (The Passover background).
Matthew 3:16-17: 'And when Jesus was baptized... the Spirit of God [descended] like a dove... and a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son..."' (The Synoptic account of the event John refers to).
1 Peter 1:18-19: '...you were ransomed... with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.' (The apostolic understanding of Christ as the perfect lamb).

Cross references

Rev 5:6 (a Lamb standing as slain), Acts 8:32 (led like a sheep), 1 Joh 3:5 (appeared to take away sins).

John 1:35-42

The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples, and he looked at Jesus as he walked by and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus... One of the two was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which means Christ). He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon the son of John. You shall be called Cephas” (which means Peter).

In-depth-analysis

Followed Jesus: John the Baptist's witness bears immediate fruit. He successfully points his own disciples to Jesus.
We have found the Messiah: Andrew's confession. Messiah (Hebrew: Mashiach) and Christ (Greek: Christos) both mean "Anointed One." They understood Jesus to be the long-awaited deliverer-king of Israel.
Cephas (Peter): Jesus renames Simon. Cephas is Aramaic for "rock"; Petros is the Greek equivalent. This renaming signifies a change in character and destiny, foretelling Peter's foundational role in the early church (Matt 16:18).

Bible references

Matthew 16:16-18: 'Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ...” And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church.' (The later event where Peter's new name is given its full significance).
John 4:25: 'The woman said to him, “I know that Messiah is coming..."' (Shows the common Jewish expectation for the Messiah).

Cross references

Mk 1:16-18 (call of Peter/Andrew), Gal 1:18 (Paul refers to Cephas), Psa 2:2 (kings plot against the Lord's Anointed).

John 1:43-51

The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, “Follow me.”... Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?”... Jesus saw Nathanael... and said... “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!”... Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Jesus answered... “you will see greater things... You will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”

In-depth-analysis

Him of whom Moses... and the prophets wrote: Philip's confession, showing he understood Jesus as the fulfillment of the entire Old Testament.
Can anything good come out of Nazareth? Nazareth was a small, obscure village not mentioned in the OT, giving it no messianic significance. Nathanael's skepticism was common. (Nathanael is traditionally identified as Bartholomew).
An Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit: Jesus' praise connects Nathanael to Jacob (whose name meant "deceiver") after he became Israel. Jesus recognizes Nathanael's honest heart. The reference to the fig tree, a common place for Jewish scholars to study the Torah, suggests Jesus had supernatural knowledge of Nathanael's private devotion.
Son of God! King of Israel! Shocked by Jesus' supernatural knowledge, Nathanael makes a profound confession, equating "Son of God" with the messianic title "King of Israel."
Angels... ascending and descending on the Son of Man: This is a direct allusion to Jacob's ladder in Genesis 28:12. Jacob saw a ladder connecting heaven and earth; Jesus declares that He is that ladder. He is the true meeting point, the only mediator, between God and humanity.
Son of Man: Jesus' favorite self-designation, drawn from Daniel 7:13-14, which depicts a divine-human figure who receives an everlasting kingdom from God.

Bible references

Genesis 28:12: 'And he dreamed, and behold, there was a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven. And behold, the angels of God were ascending and descending on it!' (The story of Jacob's Ladder, which Jesus fulfills).
Daniel 7:13-14: '...and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man... And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom...' (The OT origin of Jesus' key title for Himself).
Psalm 2:6-7: '“As for me, I have set my King on Zion...” I will tell of the decree: The Lord said to me, “You are my Son..."' (Links the identity of God's Son with Israel's King).

Cross references

Joh 6:45 (taught by God), Zec 3:10 (call neighbor under fig tree), Lk 24:27 (explaining scriptures about Himself), Psa 32:2 (no deceit).

John chapter 1 analysis

Structure and Timeline: The chapter is structured with a distinct Prologue (vv. 1-18) and a narrative section (vv. 19-51). The narrative unfolds over a series of days: Day 1 (19-28), Day 2 (29-34), Day 3 (35-42), Day 4 (43-51). This "week" has been seen by scholars as a "New Creation Week," where the foundation of the new covenant community is laid.
Progressive Christological Titles: The chapter builds a cumulative case for Jesus' identity through a series of escalating titles:
1. The Word, God (v. 1)
2. The Light (v. 4)
3. Lamb of God (v. 29, 36)
4. Messiah/Christ (v. 41)
5. The one foretold by Moses and the Prophets (v. 45)
6. Son of God (v. 34, 49)
7. King of Israel (v. 49)
8. Son of Man (v. 51)
The Theme of Witness (Martyria): The word "witness" or "testimony" appears repeatedly. The Father witnesses to the Son (via the Spirit), John the Baptist witnesses, and the new disciples immediately begin to witness to others (Andrew to Peter, Philip to Nathanael).
"Come and See" Discipleship: The invitation in v. 39 ("Come and you will see") and Philip's echo in v. 46 ("Come and see") becomes a model for discipleship in John's Gospel. It's an invitation to a personal encounter and experience with Jesus, not just an acceptance of doctrine.

John 1 summary

John 1 introduces Jesus Christ as the pre-existent, divine Word (Logos) who created all things and became human flesh to reveal God's glory, grace, and truth. Following this theological prologue, John the Baptist testifies that Jesus is the "Lamb of God" and the "Son of God." This witness leads the first disciples—Andrew, Peter, Philip, and Nathanael—to follow Jesus, recognizing Him through a progression of messianic titles and culminating in Jesus' own self-revelation as the Son of Man, the bridge between heaven and earth.

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John chapter 1 kjv

¹ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
² The same was in the beginning with God.
³ All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
⁴ In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
⁵ And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.
⁶ There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
⁷ The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe.
⁸ He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.
⁹ That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.
¹⁰ He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.
¹¹ He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
¹² But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
¹³ Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
¹⁴ And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
¹⁵ John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me.
¹⁶ And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.
¹⁷ For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.
¹⁸ No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.
¹⁹ And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou?
²⁰ And he confessed, and denied not; but confessed, I am not the Christ.
²¹ And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith, I am not. Art thou that prophet? And he answered, No.
²² Then said they unto him, Who art thou? that we may give an answer to them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself?
²³ He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias.
²⁴ And they which were sent were of the Pharisees.
²⁵ And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet?
²⁶ John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you, whom ye know not;
²⁷ He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe's latchet I am not worthy to unloose.
²⁸ These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing.
²⁹ The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
³⁰ This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me.
³¹ And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water.
³² And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him.
³³ And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.
³⁴ And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.
³⁵ Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples;
³⁶ And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!
³⁷ And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.
³⁸ Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou?
³⁹ He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day: for it was about the tenth hour.
⁴⁰ One of the two which heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother.
⁴¹ He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ.
⁴² And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone.
⁴³ The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and findeth Philip, and saith unto him, Follow me.
⁴⁴ Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.
⁴⁵ Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.
⁴⁶ And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see.
⁴⁷ Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and saith of him, Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!
⁴⁸ Nathanael saith unto him, Whence knowest thou me? Jesus answered and said unto him, Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee.
⁴⁹ Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel.
⁵⁰ Jesus answered and said unto him, Because I said unto thee, I saw thee under the fig tree, believest thou? thou shalt see greater things than these.
⁵¹ And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.

John chapter 1 nkjv

¹ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
² He was in the beginning with God.
³ All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.
⁴ In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.
⁵ And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.
⁶ There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
⁷ This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe.
⁸ He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.
⁹ That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world.
¹⁰ He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him.
¹¹ He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him.
¹² But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name:
¹³ who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
¹⁴ And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
¹⁵ John bore witness of Him and cried out, saying, "This was He of whom I said, 'He who comes after me is preferred before me, for He was before me.' "
¹⁶ And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace.
¹⁷ For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
¹⁸ No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.
¹⁹ Now this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, "Who are you?"
²⁰ He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, "I am not the Christ."
²¹ And they asked him, "What then? Are you Elijah?" He said, "I am not." "Are you the Prophet?" And he answered, "No."
²² Then they said to him, "Who are you, that we may give an answer to those who sent us? What do you say about yourself?"
²³ He said: "I am 'The voice of one crying in the wilderness: "Make straight the way of the LORD," ' as the prophet Isaiah said."
²⁴ Now those who were sent were from the Pharisees.
²⁵ And they asked him, saying, "Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?"
²⁶ John answered them, saying, "I baptize with water, but there stands One among you whom you do not know.
²⁷ It is He who, coming after me, is preferred before me, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose."
²⁸ These things were done in Bethabara beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing.
²⁹ The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, "Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!
³⁰ This is He of whom I said, 'After me comes a Man who is preferred before me, for He was before me.'
³¹ I did not know Him; but that He should be revealed to Israel, therefore I came baptizing with water."
³² And John bore witness, saying, "I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him.
³³ I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, 'Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.'
³⁴ And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God."
³⁵ Again, the next day, John stood with two of his disciples.
³⁶ And looking at Jesus as He walked, he said, "Behold the Lamb of God!"
³⁷ The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.
³⁸ Then Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them, "What do you seek?" They said to Him, "Rabbi" (which is to say, when translated, Teacher), "where are You staying?"
³⁹ He said to them, "Come and see." They came and saw where He was staying, and remained with Him that day (now it was about the tenth hour).
⁴⁰ One of the two who heard John speak, and followed Him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother.
⁴¹ He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him, "We have found the Messiah" (which is translated, the Christ).
⁴² And he brought him to Jesus. Now when Jesus looked at him, He said, "You are Simon the son of Jonah. You shall be called Cephas" (which is translated, A Stone).
⁴³ The following day Jesus wanted to go to Galilee, and He found Philip and said to him, "Follow Me."
⁴⁴ Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.
⁴⁵ Philip found Nathanael and said to him, "We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets, wrote?Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph."
⁴⁶ And Nathanael said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see."
⁴⁷ Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward Him, and said of him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!"
⁴⁸ Nathanael said to Him, "How do You know me?" Jesus answered and said to him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you."
⁴⁹ Nathanael answered and said to Him, "Rabbi, You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!"
⁵⁰ Jesus answered and said to him, "Because I said to you, 'I saw you under the fig tree,' do you believe? You will see greater things than these."
⁵¹ And He said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, hereafter you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man."

John chapter 1 niv

¹ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
² He was with God in the beginning.
³ Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.
⁴ In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.
⁵ The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
⁶ There was a man sent from God whose name was John.
⁷ He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe.
⁸ He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.
⁹ The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.
¹⁰ He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him.
¹¹ He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.
¹² Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God?
¹³ children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.
¹⁴ The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
¹⁵ (John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, "This is the one I spoke about when I said, 'He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.'?")
¹⁶ Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given.
¹⁷ For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
¹⁸ No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.
¹⁹ Now this was John's testimony when the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him who he was.
²⁰ He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, "I am not the Messiah."
²¹ They asked him, "Then who are you? Are you Elijah?" He said, "I am not." "Are you the Prophet?" He answered, "No."
²² Finally they said, "Who are you? Give us an answer to take back to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?"
²³ John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, "I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness, 'Make straight the way for the Lord.'?"
²⁴ Now the Pharisees who had been sent
²⁵ questioned him, "Why then do you baptize if you are not the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?"
²⁶ "I baptize with water," John replied, "but among you stands one you do not know.
²⁷ He is the one who comes after me, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie."
²⁸ This all happened at Bethany on the other side of the Jordan, where John was baptizing.
²⁹ The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!
³⁰ This is the one I meant when I said, 'A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.'
³¹ I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel."
³² Then John gave this testimony: "I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him.
³³ And I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, 'The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.'
³⁴ I have seen and I testify that this is God's Chosen One."
³⁵ The next day John was there again with two of his disciples.
³⁶ When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, "Look, the Lamb of God!"
³⁷ When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus.
³⁸ Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, "What do you want?" They said, "Rabbi" (which means "Teacher"), "where are you staying?"
³⁹ "Come," he replied, "and you will see." So they went and saw where he was staying, and they spent that day with him. It was about four in the afternoon.
⁴⁰ Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus.
⁴¹ The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, "We have found the Messiah" (that is, the Christ).
⁴² And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, "You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas" (which, when translated, is Peter).
⁴³ The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, "Follow me."
⁴⁴ Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida.
⁴⁵ Philip found Nathanael and told him, "We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote?Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph."
⁴⁶ "Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?" Nathanael asked. "Come and see," said Philip.
⁴⁷ When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, "Here truly is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit."
⁴⁸ "How do you know me?" Nathanael asked. Jesus answered, "I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you."
⁴⁹ Then Nathanael declared, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Israel."
⁵⁰ Jesus said, "You believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree. You will see greater things than that."
⁵¹ He then added, "Very truly I tell you, you will see 'heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on' the Son of Man."

John chapter 1 esv

¹ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
² He was in the beginning with God.
³ All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.
⁴ In him was life, and the life was the light of men.
⁵ The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
⁶ There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
⁷ He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him.
⁸ He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light.
⁹ The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.
¹⁰ He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him.
¹¹ He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him.
¹² But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,
¹³ who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.
¹⁴ And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.
¹⁵ (John bore witness about him, and cried out, "This was he of whom I said, 'He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.'")
¹⁶ For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.
¹⁷ For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
¹⁸ No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father's side, he has made him known.
¹⁹ And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, "Who are you?"
²⁰ He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, "I am not the Christ."
²¹ And they asked him, "What then? Are you Elijah?" He said, "I am not." "Are you the Prophet?" And he answered, "No."
²² So they said to him, "Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?"
²³ He said, "I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, 'Make straight the way of the Lord,' as the prophet Isaiah said."
²⁴ (Now they had been sent from the Pharisees.)
²⁵ They asked him, "Then why are you baptizing, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?"
²⁶ John answered them, "I baptize with water, but among you stands one you do not know,
²⁷ even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie."
²⁸ These things took place in Bethany across the Jordan, where John was baptizing.
²⁹ The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!
³⁰ This is he of whom I said, 'After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.'
³¹ I myself did not know him, but for this purpose I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel."
³² And John bore witness: "I saw the Spirit descend from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him.
³³ I myself did not know him, but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, 'He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.'
³⁴ And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God."
³⁵ The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples,
³⁶ and he looked at Jesus as he walked by and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God!"
³⁷ The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus.
³⁸ Jesus turned and saw them following and said to them, "What are you seeking?" And they said to him, "Rabbi" (which means Teacher), "where are you staying?"
³⁹ 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.
⁴⁰ One of the two who heard John speak and followed Jesus was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother.
⁴¹ He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, "We have found the Messiah" (which means Christ).
⁴² He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, "You are Simon the son of John. You shall be called Cephas" (which means Peter ).
⁴³ The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, "Follow me."
⁴⁴ Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.
⁴⁵ Philip found Nathanael and said to him, "We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph."
⁴⁶ Nathanael said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see."
⁴⁷ Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!"
⁴⁸ Nathanael said to him, "How do you know me?" Jesus answered him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you."
⁴⁹ Nathanael answered him, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!"
⁵⁰ Jesus answered him, "Because I said to you, 'I saw you under the fig tree,' do you believe? You will see greater things than these."
⁵¹ And he said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man."

John chapter 1 nlt

¹ In the beginning the Word already existed.
The Word was with God,
and the Word was God.
² He existed in the beginning with God.
³ God created everything through him,
and nothing was created except through him.
⁴ The Word gave life to everything that was created,
and his life brought light to everyone.
⁵ The light shines in the darkness,
and the darkness can never extinguish it.
⁶ God sent a man, John the Baptist,
⁷ to tell about the light so that everyone might believe because of his testimony.
⁸ John himself was not the light; he was simply a witness to tell about the light.
⁹ The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.
¹⁰ He came into the very world he created, but the world didn't recognize him.
¹¹ He came to his own people, and even they rejected him.
¹² But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.
¹³ They are reborn ? not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God.
¹⁴ So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father's one and only Son.
¹⁵ John testified about him when he shouted to the crowds, "This is the one I was talking about when I said, 'Someone is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before me.'"
¹⁶ From his abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another.
¹⁷ For the law was given through Moses, but God's unfailing love and faithfulness came through Jesus Christ.
¹⁸ No one has ever seen God. But the unique One, who is himself God, is near to the Father's heart. He has revealed God to us.
¹⁹ This was John's testimony when the Jewish leaders sent priests and Temple assistants from Jerusalem to ask John, "Who are you?"
²⁰ He came right out and said, "I am not the Messiah."
²¹ "Well then, who are you?" they asked. "Are you Elijah?" "No," he replied. "Are you the Prophet we are expecting?" "No."
²² "Then who are you? We need an answer for those who sent us. What do you have to say about yourself?"
²³ John replied in the words of the prophet Isaiah: "I am a voice shouting in the wilderness,
'Clear the way for the LORD's coming!'"
²⁴ Then the Pharisees who had been sent
²⁵ asked him, "If you aren't the Messiah or Elijah or the Prophet, what right do you have to baptize?"
²⁶ John told them, "I baptize with water, but right here in the crowd is someone you do not recognize.
²⁷ Though his ministry follows mine, I'm not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandal."
²⁸ This encounter took place in Bethany, an area east of the Jordan River, where John was baptizing.
²⁹ The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!
³⁰ He is the one I was talking about when I said, 'A man is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before me.'
³¹ I did not recognize him as the Messiah, but I have been baptizing with water so that he might be revealed to Israel."
³² Then John testified, "I saw the Holy Spirit descending like a dove from heaven and resting upon him.
³³ I didn't know he was the one, but when God sent me to baptize with water, he told me, 'The one on whom you see the Spirit descend and rest is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.'
³⁴ I saw this happen to Jesus, so I testify that he is the Chosen One of God. "
³⁵ The following day John was again standing with two of his disciples.
³⁶ As Jesus walked by, John looked at him and declared, "Look! There is the Lamb of God!"
³⁷ When John's two disciples heard this, they followed Jesus.
³⁸ Jesus looked around and saw them following. "What do you want?" he asked them. They replied, "Rabbi" (which means "Teacher"), "where are you staying?"
³⁹ "Come and see," he said. It was about four o'clock in the afternoon when they went with him to the place where he was staying, and they remained with him the rest of the day.
⁴⁰ Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of these men who heard what John said and then followed Jesus.
⁴¹ Andrew went to find his brother, Simon, and told him, "We have found the Messiah" (which means "Christ" ).
⁴² Then Andrew brought Simon to meet Jesus. Looking intently at Simon, Jesus said, "Your name is Simon, son of John ? but you will be called Cephas" (which means "Peter" ).
⁴³ The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, "Come, follow me."
⁴⁴ Philip was from Bethsaida, Andrew and Peter's hometown.
⁴⁵ Philip went to look for Nathanael and told him, "We have found the very person Moses and the prophets wrote about! His name is Jesus, the son of Joseph from Nazareth."
⁴⁶ "Nazareth!" exclaimed Nathanael. "Can anything good come from Nazareth?" "Come and see for yourself," Philip replied.
⁴⁷ As they approached, Jesus said, "Now here is a genuine son of Israel ? a man of complete integrity."
⁴⁸ "How do you know about me?" Nathanael asked. Jesus replied, "I could see you under the fig tree before Philip found you."
⁴⁹ Then Nathanael exclaimed, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God ? the King of Israel!"
⁵⁰ Jesus asked him, "Do you believe this just because I told you I had seen you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this."
⁵¹ Then he said, "I tell you the truth, you will all see heaven open and the angels of God going up and down on the Son of Man, the one who is the stairway between heaven and earth. "