SOAP Bible study is a method that involves Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. It’s a way to delve deeper into the Bible and apply its teachings to one’s life. Let’s apply this method to our SOAP Bible Study: John 1:43-51.
Scripture
“The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida. Philip found Nathanael and told him, ‘We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.’ Nathanael asked him, ‘Can anything good come from Nazareth?’ Philip replied, ‘Come and see.’ When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, ‘Here truly is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit.’ Nathanael asked him, ‘How do you know me?’ Jesus answered, ‘I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you.’ Then Nathanael declared, ‘Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Israel.’ Jesus said, ‘You believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree. You will see greater things than that.’ He then added, ‘Very truly I tell you, you will see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.‘” (John 1:43-51)
Observation
This passage describes the calling of Philip and Nathanael. Jesus’ simple command to Philip, “Follow me,” leads Philip to respond and then bring Nathanael to Jesus. Initially skeptical, Nathanael’s doubt about Nazareth highlights common prejudices and misconceptions people can have based on background or origin. Jesus’ knowledge of Nathanael even before meeting him reveals His divine insight and leads to Nathanael’s confession of faith in Jesus as the Son of God and King of Israel. Jesus promises that they will witness even greater revelations, referring to the fulfillment of Jacob’s dream of angels ascending and descending, now realized in Him.
Application
This narrative encourages us to overcome our own doubts and prejudices, especially concerning where and how God can work or who He can use. Philip’s example shows the importance of inviting others to “come and see,” allowing their personal experience with Jesus to address their doubts and transform their understanding. As followers of Jesus, we are reminded of the power of personal testimony and the impact of extending a simple invitation to others. It also encourages us to be open to the greater things God promises, anticipating how He will continue to reveal Himself and His purposes to us.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for calling me to follow You and for the personal relationship You offer. Help me to overcome my doubts and prejudices, and to see Your hand in unexpected places and people. Inspire me to invite others to ‘come and see’ and experience You for themselves. May I, like Nathanael, recognize You more fully each day as the Son of God and the King of my life. Prepare my heart for the greater things You have promised, that I might not only witness Your glory but also share it with the world around me. Amen.
This study is just the beginning. Let it ignite a deeper desire within you to continue exploring the Scriptures. Each chapter and verse in the Gospel of John is rich with divine revelation waiting to be uncovered. I encourage you to keep studying, keep questioning, and keep seeking the light that Jesus offers. Dive deeper into the free Bible outlines available, engage with the full text, and allow God’s word to continuously transform your heart and mind. Embrace this journey of faith with enthusiasm and let the Word that was in the beginning guide you each step of the way.
