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I. IN A STATE OF PREJUDICE.

1. Philip went to him in the fulness of his heart, expecting that he would be as glad to hear as he was to tell.

2. But Nathanael receives the announcement with coldness. He had formed an ill opinion of the place, and therefore of all connected with it.

3. Prejudice is very common, and in religious matters is very pernicious, and men should be on their guard against it. It may prevent them receiving salvation.

4. How should we treat it? As Philip did — "Come and see." Apply this to Bible doctrines, experimental religion, foreign missions. This only will dispel prejudice.

II. AN ISRAELITE INDEED IN WHOM IS NO GUILE. Nathanael dropped his prejudice and acted as a man of candour. He was sincere, not sinless. How common is insincerity in word and act! How beautiful is fair transparency of character, after the image of Christ, in whom was no guile! Nathanael was also sincere towards God. Not that this must stand alone; it must qualify other graces: sincere repentance, faith, love, etc. This sincerity is uncommon. Witness the easy way in which men confess themselves miserable sinners.

III. A CONFESSOR OF CHRIST.

1. Making his confession, which was —

(1)  Well grounded.

(2)  Ample.

2. Encouraged by Christ. Christ would encourage all young converts by showing them good things to come.

(J. Hambleton, M. A.)

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KJV: Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.

WEB: Now Philip was from Bethsaida, of the city of Andrew and Peter.