49 Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” 50 Jesus answered him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.” 51 And he said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”
John 1:49-51 (ESV)
Nathanael’s Confession
After Jesus identified Nathanael’s personality and demonstrated His prophetic prowess (see yesterday), Nathanael is convinced He is the Son of God, the King of Israel, “a confession both of the person and office of Christ.” (Wesley’s commentary) Son of God referred to His deity. “By this title he doubtless meant that he was the Messiah. His conscience told him that [Jesus] had judged right of his character, and that therefore he must know the heart and the desires of the mind. If so, he could not be a mere man, but must be the long-expected Messiah. “ (Barnes’ commentary)
Greater things
Jesus acknowledged Nathanael’s faith and recognition of who He was. Then He says, “You ain’t seen nuthin’ yet! You think this prophetic miracle is amazing, wait until you see the rest.” What are these greater things? Well, certainly the miracles He would perform – such as healings, exorcisms, raising dead, and feeding multitudes. It may also be His ascension after victory over death. These would all prove He is the Messiah, the Son of God.
Heavenly ladder
Verse 51 undoubtedly refers to Jacob’s vision (Gen 28:12-22) where he sees a ladder between earth and Heaven. I like how bibleref.com explains this: “Jesus is making a subtle reference to the reason for His ministry: to serve as the connection between men and God. Christ also uses the seventh and most important of the seven names of chapter 1: “The Son of Man.” This is one of Jesus’ favorite terms for Himself. It refers to a major prophecy of the Messiah, in Daniel 7:13. Jewish people who heard the phrase, “Son of Man” would know exactly what He was referring to: the Savior and King of Israel.”
<Reflection>
- Son of God, Son of Man. What significance do these names of Jesus have?
- What miracles did Jesus do that have the most impact on you? Share in the comments. Raising Lazarus from the dead is mine.
