John 1:37
And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 11
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
αὐτοῦ
him
G846
αὐτοῦ
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
3 of 11
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
8 of 11
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἠκολούθησαν
they followed
G190
ἠκολούθησαν
they followed
Strong's:
G190
Word #:
9 of 11
properly, to be in the same way with, i.e., to accompany (specially, as a disciple)
Cross References
Romans 10:17So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.John 1:43The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and findeth Philip, and saith unto him, Follow me.Revelation 22:17And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.Zechariah 8:21And the inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, Let us go speedily to pray before the LORD, and to seek the LORD of hosts: I will go also.
Historical Context
These two disciples represent the first fruits of Christian discipleship. Andrew is named (verse 40); the unnamed disciple is traditionally identified as John the Evangelist himself. Their willingness to leave their current teacher and follow Jesus based on testimony shows remarkable spiritual sensitivity and readiness.
Questions for Reflection
- What testimony about Christ first drew you to follow Him?
- How does hearing lead to following in the process of becoming a disciple?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The two disciples 'heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.' Faith comes by hearing (Romans 10:17). John's testimony produced immediate response—they followed. The verb 'akoloutheo' (followed) indicates more than physical movement; it implies discipleship, commitment to follow a teacher. These disciples demonstrate the proper response to gospel testimony—hearing leads to following. The simplicity is instructive: they heard, they responded, they followed.