Our study this week leads us to Nathanael, aka “Bartholomew“.  Yes….another week, another disciple, another name, I mean, other name!  Nathanael is buddies with Phillip, who we learned about last week.  And this pairing marks the third group of friends:  Simon/Peter and Andrew; James and John; and now, Phillip and Nathanael.

Unique to Nathanael is perhaps that he is already very versed in scripture, especially the Old Testament.  And while he knew the Messiah would be coming, he is somewhat taken back when Phillip comes racing to him one afternoon saying, “We have found Him of whom Moses, in the law, and also the profits, wrote…” (John 1:45)

But, instead of feeling overjoyed and elated, when Nathanael hears where Jesus is from, he’s taken back and says:

“Can anything good come out of Nazareth?”

This week’s lesson peels back onion to reveal this disciple’s deep rooted prejudices.  What’s he got against Nazareth, (or anyone’s hometown) anyway?  I’ve just spent the last two days in our nation’s capital…..and some might ask “what good”…or “what bad” can come out of this busy city!

We’ll take more about prejudices, in a biblical sense, this Friday.  Short reading of Chapter 7: Nathanael – The Guileless One.

Mike leads the conversation about Nathanael.  Join us starting at 7:30 am in fellowship, with the lesson kicking off at 7:45 am.  Meeting location is The Cornwell Center.

Have a great rest of the week!

Peace!