Seeing Is Doing

Philip and Andrew have Greek (rather than Jewish) names and come from the Gentile region of Bethsaida. Their introductions have helped to form the nucleus of the twelve disciples (John 1), and Philip has already used his knowledge of the locale at the feeding of the five thousand (John 6:5) because the miracle took place nearby (Mark 6:45). You would think that Jesus would capitalize on this opportunity for Gentile outreach, but he appears to avoid the issue—for two reasons.

First, simply meeting Jesus, hearing his teaching, and observing his actions does not constitute true “seeing.” Plenty of people saw his miracles, including the raising of Lazarus, but it did not lead them to “see” Jesus. These wonders are not ends in themselves, but signs pointing to a greater reality—who Jesus is and what he is here to do. Even the disciples do not understand the real significance of what he says and does until after he has been “glorified”—and that “hour,” postponed until now, has finally arrived (23). The end result of a seed is not to be enjoyed up-front—but rather for the seed to “die” in the earth, so that it might produce so much more than itself (24). Similarly, the purpose of Jesus’ ministry is to plant him in death unto resurrection, thereby pouring out to many the gift of eternal life.

Second, to really “see” Jesus we need to change from passive observers into active followers. As Jesus loses his own life for us, so we must follow his example and lose our life for others. Only then will we “see” Jesus’ life made real. His actual reply to the Greeks who would see him would perhaps be the same very last words he will speak to Peter: “follow me” (John 21:19–22).

Someone once wisely said, “If you want God to guide your footsteps, you need to start moving.” In what way is Jesus calling you to step out, following his example of life?