From: May 1, 2014
The disciple Nathaniel went from expressing doubt to proclaiming belief simply because Jesus told him he had seen him earlier under a fig tree. Jesus appears to find this humorous. He responded that it didn’t take much to move Nathaniel to believing, but there would come a day when his faith would be rewarded with full evidence of Christ’s identity. Jesus then described a coming day when all would see him as the “stairway between heaven and earth.” This is a clear allusion to Jacob’s vision in Genesis 28 when Jacob saw this same stairway and named the place Bethel, which means “House of God.” Jesus is the fulfillment of Jacob’s vision. He is the Ladder of Love come down mediating the only way to the Father (John 14:6, 1 Tim. 2:5).
From: May 1, 2013
This is what Jesus told his newest follower, Nathaniel, after the disciple expressed amazement at Jesus over a little thing. Jesus was essentially saying, “You ain’t seen nothing yet!” (Forgive the slang, but wanted to drive home the point). Jesus used unusual language in this prophecy: “angels ascending and descending…” The reference would’ve been easily recognized by his Jewish disciple though, as it clearly refers to Jacob’s ladder vision (Gen.28:12). Jesus was saying, “I am the ladder between heaven and earth,” follow me and you’ll see it.
From: May 1, 2012
I’m glad Moses and the prophets wrote. I’m especially thankful that the apostles wrote. The Bible is the single most powerful reason for worldwide literacy. But much more than that, it is the wisdom of God and contains the Gospel by which we are saved. Are you passing the Book on to your children and grandchildren?
From: May 1, 2011
How Philip invited Nathaniel to follow Christ is still one important strategy for ministry. The other is “Go and tell.” Healthy churches do both. Today is the first Sunday in WCC’s new home. Go and tell someone to come and see.