The Year of our Lord, Jesus Christ
John 1:43
The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and findeth Philip, and saith unto him, Follow me.
Special Note: In the book of Luke the phrase “follow me” is used four times. The call of Matthew, the cost of coming after Him (deny oneself, take up the cross and follow Him), the man who asked to be excused to bury his father, and the rich young ruler that desired eternal life but left Jesus, sad and grieved. Since these have already been examined, we skip to the book of John.
First it was Simon and Andrew, then it was the unnamed disciple that wanted to bury his father, then it was Matthew, then it was the rich young ruler that did not f0llow Him, now it was Philip’s turn. Jesus simply said to Philip, “Follow Me” and he did! Biblically not much is revealed about this apostle, but we do know this, he did not waste any time. As soon as the Lord called him, this man found Nathaniel and brought him to Jesus. He seemed to have a concern for others. Which is something the Lord must have known, hence the call to service.
Philip the Apostle is not Philip the Deacon. After Acts 1, Philip the Apostle is not heard from again in Scripture. Of all that we do not know there is one thing that can be known. Jesus has called, is calling, and will be calling individuals to simply “Follow Me” from the time He walked on earth until the earth is no more. The call may be personal. but the call is also universal. Meaning one person may hear and accept the Lord Jesus’ call to service of some sort while those around do not/or will not heed the same.
Don’t believe this call is universal…. wait until tomorrow!
Until next time,
William T. Howe, Ph.D.