Bible Studies/John 1:36-42

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Expert: - 1/23/2010


Question
In verse John 1:35 and again in John 1:40
It mentions that there were two people following John the Baptist. One has been identified as Andrew Simon/Peter's Brother. The other was has not been identified.

I don't want to speculate but could this be John the Author (but he doesn't say "the one that Jesus loved"). So who is this other follower?

Answer
The context in John is not clear who was present when Andrew was called.  We know that Peter was led to Jesus by Andrew (John 1:42) as Jesus called the two of them (Matthew 4:18) to follow Him.  The next day, Philip and Nathanael are called by Jesus and Philip (if not also Nathanael) was from the same city as Andrew and Peter (John 1:44).  We also know that James and John were called around the same time (Matthew 4:21).  Matthew 10:2-4, Mark 3:16-19, and Luke 6:14-16 list the disciples and Peter is at the top of these lists.  Therefore, it may have been Peter who was with Andrew and John in the passage you mention.  However, as noted above, it is not clear but the context and parallel passages suggest that is may have been Peter.

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Roy Wallen

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Using the Bible as my primary source and references in support of it, I am willing to answer questions on subjects from the Old and New Testaments. My faith is based on biblical Christianity and fundamental views from the Bible. I cannot answer questions about specific sects or religious organizations nor can I address religions outside biblical Christianity. As a Christian for nearly 40 years, I have studied many aspects of the Christian faith. My particular interests are in creation and the natural processes of the world around us and how they fit with the biblical record. I believe that all Scripture is inspired by God. I believe that there are no contradictions in the Bible and that the Bible is complete in telling us as individuals how we should relate to God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit; our purpose on earth; and how we should live. Greek lauguage study has helped me gain additional insight into the New Testament but most of my reference work is done in English and, to a lesser degree, German.

Experience

Personal Bible study over the years, lessons delivered in Sunday School settings and messages during organized services, and leading Bible study series have prepared me to be comfortable addressing questions from others.

Education/Credentials
Formal study includes Greek language. I am a layman without a theological degree. Training has come from sitting under the ministry of excellent Bible teachers for my entire adult life, personal study, and selected courses. Secular educaitonal background includes an undergraduate engineering degree, graduate work in engineerign and business, and advanced courses in business and theology.

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