Topical Bible: Obedience: Nathanael

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Nathanael, also known as Bartholomew in the synoptic Gospels, is a figure in the New Testament who exemplifies obedience through his immediate and faithful response to Jesus Christ. His account is primarily found in the Gospel of John, where he is introduced as a man of integrity and openness to divine revelation.

Biblical Account

Nathanael's encounter with Jesus is recorded in John 1:45-51. Philip, who had already met Jesus, finds Nathanael and tells him, "We have found the One Moses wrote about in the Law, the One the prophets foretold—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph" (John 1:45). Nathanael's initial skepticism is evident in his response, "Can anything good come from Nazareth?" (John 1:46). Despite his doubts, Nathanael follows Philip to meet Jesus, demonstrating a willingness to explore the truth.

Upon meeting Nathanael, Jesus declares, "Here is a true Israelite, in whom there is no deceit" (John 1:47). This statement highlights Nathanael's sincerity and integrity, qualities that align with the biblical understanding of obedience as a heart aligned with God's truth. Nathanael's surprise at Jesus' knowledge of him leads to a profound confession of faith: "Rabbi, You are the Son of God; You are the King of Israel" (John 1:49). This confession signifies Nathanael's obedient acceptance of Jesus' identity and mission.

Theological Significance

Nathanael's obedience is characterized by his openness to divine revelation and his readiness to follow Jesus despite initial doubts. His account illustrates the biblical principle that true obedience involves a heart that is receptive to God's truth and willing to act upon it. Nathanael's immediate recognition of Jesus as the Messiah underscores the importance of spiritual discernment and the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding believers to truth.

In the broader context of Scripture, Nathanael's obedience can be seen as a model for believers. His willingness to set aside preconceived notions and respond to Jesus' call reflects the biblical call to "trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5). Nathanael's account encourages believers to approach God with honesty and a readiness to embrace His will.

Legacy and Tradition

While Nathanael is not mentioned frequently in the New Testament, his legacy as a faithful disciple is preserved in Christian tradition. He is often identified with Bartholomew, one of the twelve apostles listed in the synoptic Gospels (Matthew 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:14). This identification suggests that Nathanael continued to serve Jesus with obedience and dedication throughout his ministry.

In summary, Nathanael's example of obedience is a testament to the transformative power of encountering Christ. His account invites believers to pursue a life of integrity, openness to God's revelation, and unwavering commitment to following Jesus.

Nave's Topical Index

John 1:47
Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said of him, Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The First Disciples: iv. Nathanael
... Son of God.' John's testimony was echoed in Nathanael's confession ... element of rapturous
acknowledgment, of loyal submission, absolute obedience, of unfaltering ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture i/the first disciples iv nathanael.htm

Divine Calls.
... in like manner says to him, "Come and see." "Jesus saw Nathanael coming unto ... human
feeling, were rebuked for want of promptitude in their obedience;"for time ...
/.../newman/parochial and plain sermons vol viii/sermon ii divine calls.htm

Jesus' Knowledge of Truth
... prophet had done on the finality of conduct and the necessity of obedience (Matthew
7:21 ... 7:47), and his knowledge of the character of Simon and Nathanael (John 1 ...
/.../rhees/the life of jesus of nazareth/iii jesus knowledge of truth.htm

The First Disciples: v. Believing and Seeing
... with the same words, 'Come and see.' Christ greeted the approaching Nathanael with
'When ... and his heart goes out to Him, in confidence and love and obedience. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture i/the first disciples v believing.htm

"We have Found the Messias"
... that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God" are cast down; every thought
is brought into captivity "to the obedience of Christ ... Philip called Nathanael. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/white/the desire of ages/chapter 14 we have found.htm

John i. 49, 50
... What then does Nathanael? ... appeared greater than any, because they followed the true
and excellent way of gaining relationship with Him, that by obedience. ...
/.../homilies on the gospel of st john and hebrews/homily xxi john i 49.htm

The Beach and the Sea
... the five persons named in our text appear there: Simon Peter, Nathanael of Cana ... They
had all gone from Jerusalem to Galilee, in obedience to His command, and ...
/.../expositions of holy scripture st john chaps xv to xxi/the beach and the sea.htm

Jesus Works his First Miracle at Cana in Galilee.
... His disciples were Andrew, Peter, Philip, Nathanael, and probably John and James ...
woman," a term of courteous respect, but indicating no spirit of obedience. ...
/.../mcgarvey/the four-fold gospel/xxii jesus works his first.htm

The First Disciples: iii. Philip
... Then again, Jesus finds Philip; and again, Philip, as soon as he has been won to
Jesus, goes off to find Nathanael; and his ... It is also a call to obedience. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture i/the first disciples iii philip.htm

A Knowledge of God
... God's created works will teach us precious lessons of obedience and trust. ... When
Nathanael came to Jesus, the Saviour exclaimed, "Behold an Israelite indeed, in ...
//christianbookshelf.org/white/steps to christ/chapter 10 a knowledge of.htm