Come and See

             Recently, in my devotion time, I read the phrase “Come and see.”  When it appeared twice within just a few verses, it piqued my curiosity.  Is there a deeper meaning to this simple phrase?  My review of Scripture tells me that there is.  These three little words could be the simplest way to introduce others to the risen Savior and perhaps the best reminder of the personal relationship that God desires to have with each one of us.

            First, we will consider how that phrase might be used as an evangelistic tool.  I first read the phrase in John 1: 39, where the disciples of John the Baptist encountered Jesus and asked where He was staying.  His response was “Come and see.”

            These disciples had just heard John the Baptist call Jesus “the Lamb of God,” identifying Him as the ultimate sacrifice who would take away the sins of the world.  Knowing that I doubt that these guys were really interested in where Jesus was staying.  They were much more likely concerned about who Jesus was and getting to know Him better.  Even in that culture, which was very hospitable, I doubt that people would just invite themselves into someone’s home.  By asking “Where are you staying”, they were indirectly making that request, and if you read the rest of verse 39, you find that it worked.  They spent the rest of the day with Him.

            I doubt that they spent that time checking out His lodgings.  They probably spent that time getting to know Christ and listening to Him teach.  Afterward, the first thing that Andrew, one of the two, did was to tell his brother, Peter, that he had found the Messiah.

            How many people are curious about Jesus, but they are afraid to set foot inside a church for fear that the walls might cave in?  How many look different because they have hit on hard times, come from a different ethnic background, or have a past that many “so-called” Christians would not tolerate?  So, out of fear of rejection or low self-esteem, or a bad encounter with religion, they remain on the fringe, afraid to ask where Jesus can be found.

            As Christians, it’s our responsibility to reflect the love of Jesus even to those who may at first seem unlovable.  Christ died for the ungodly (Romans 5:6) – them and us. Some people may never step foot inside a church, but they can get to know Jesus through us.  It’s up to us to say “Come and see” who Jesus is.  “Come and see” what He’s already done for you.  “Come and see” what He’s done in my life. “Come and See!”

            The apostle Philip told his brother “Come and see.”  The woman at the well told her neighbors “Come and see a man who told me everything I ever did.”  Three little words, so simple yet so full of hope and promise.  Who can you invite to “come and see.”

John 1: 39, 46 & 4: 29