Come And See Series

COME AND SEE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 1:35-51

Key Verse: “And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see.” . (John 1:46)

Supporting Texts: Psalm 34:8, Matthew 11:28-30, John 4:29, John 7:37, Revelation 3:20

INTRODUCTION

In the early days of Jesus’ ministry, two disciples of John the Baptist began to follow Jesus after hearing John testify about Him. When Jesus noticed them following Him, He asked a simple but profound question: “What seek ye?” Their response revealed a desire to know where He lived, and Jesus responded with the gracious invitation, “Come and see.” This invitation opened the door for them to personally experience the life and ministry of Christ.

Christianity is not merely about hearing reports about Jesus; it is about personally encountering Him. Many people know about Christ through sermons, books, or testimonies, but the true power of faith is discovered when individuals come personally to Him. The invitation of Jesus still echoes through the centuries, calling people to draw near and experience His presence.

The phrase “Come and see” reflects the heart of the gospel. Jesus invites every seeker to experience His grace, truth, and transforming power. Those who respond to His call discover that life in Christ brings meaning, purpose, and eternal hope.

1. THE INVITATION OF JESUS IS OPEN TO ALL

The call to “come and see” demonstrates that Jesus welcomes everyone who sincerely seeks Him.

a) Jesus invites seekers to draw near (Matthew 11:28)

Jesus calls all who labour and are heavy laden to come to Him for rest. His invitation is extended to those who are weary, burdened, and searching for hope.

b) The invitation is given without discrimination (John 7:37)

Jesus declared that if anyone thirsts, they should come to Him and drink. This invitation is open to every person regardless of background or status.

c) God desires fellowship with humanity (Revelation 3:20)

Christ stands at the door and knocks, inviting people to open their hearts so that He may come in and fellowship with them.

d) Those who seek Christ will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13)

God promises that those who seek Him with all their hearts will find Him. The invitation requires a sincere response.

Biblical Example:

When Jesus called the fishermen Peter and Andrew, they immediately left their nets and followed Him, demonstrating how ordinary people can respond to Christ’s invitation (Matthew 4:18-20).

2. A PERSONAL ENCOUNTER WITH JESUS CHANGES LIVES

Those who accepted Christ’s invitation experienced life-transforming encounters.

a) Encountering Christ reveals truth (John 8:32)

A genuine encounter with Jesus opens our eyes to spiritual truth and leads to freedom from deception and bondage.

b) Encountering Christ brings spiritual transformation (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Anyone who comes to Christ becomes a new creation. Old things pass away and a new life begins.

c) Encountering Christ produces peace and rest (Matthew 11:29)

Jesus gives rest to the soul, replacing anxiety and burdens with peace and assurance.

d) Encountering Christ strengthens faith (Romans 10:17)

Faith grows as we hear and experience the Word of God in our personal walk with Him.

Biblical Example:

The Samaritan woman encountered Jesus at the well and her life was completely transformed, leading her to testify about Him to her entire community (John 4:25-30).

3. THOSE WHO EXPERIENCE JESUS INVITE OTHERS

A genuine encounter with Christ naturally leads believers to invite others to experience Him.

a) Andrew brought Peter to Jesus (John 1:40-42)

After encountering Christ, Andrew immediately brought his brother Peter to meet Him. Personal encounters inspire evangelism.

b) Believers are called to share the gospel (Matthew 28:19)

Christ commands His followers to make disciples of all nations by sharing the message of salvation.

c) Testimonies draw people to Christ (Psalm 66:16)

Sharing personal testimonies of God’s goodness encourages others to seek Him.

d) The gospel spreads through personal invitation (Acts 1:8)

Believers receive power from the Holy Spirit to become witnesses for Christ everywhere.

Biblical Example:

Philip invited Nathanael to meet Jesus with the simple words, “Come and see,” demonstrating the power of a personal invitation (John 1:45-46).

4. ABIDING WITH CHRIST PRODUCES SPIRITUAL GROWTH

The disciples who accepted Christ’s invitation did not merely visit Him; they remained with Him and learned from Him.

a) Spiritual growth comes through abiding in Christ (John 15:4-5)

Jesus taught that believers must abide in Him in order to bear fruit and grow spiritually.

b) Fellowship with Christ deepens our understanding (1 John 1:3)

Walking in fellowship with Christ brings joy and deeper spiritual insight.

c) Time spent with Christ builds spiritual strength (Isaiah 40:31)

Those who wait upon the Lord renew their strength and gain divine empowerment.

d) Abiding in Christ produces lasting fruit (John 15:8)

A life connected to Christ becomes fruitful and glorifies God.