"Ordinary Questions"

EPISODE 7

Respond Like A Disciple

Watch

Listen

Read

In 2004, husbands everywhere were dragged to the movie The Notebook. In one scene that I suspect most husbands (and wives!) can relate to, Ryan Gosling's character asks in exasperation, "What do you want?!?" He asks the question four times, begging for a clear answer. It's a question I have, at times, wanted to shout at people who seem lost in their own lives. No doubt, someone should scream these four words at me some days. And considering its universal value, it's no wonder this is Jesus' opening question in the gospel of John.

"Jesus turned and saw them following and said to them, 'What are you seeking?' And they said to him, "Rabbi" (which means Teacher), 'where are you staying?'" (‭‭John‬ ‭1:38)

This little conversation sets the tone for the way Jesus confronts us throughout the book and illustrates two essential characteristics of a disciple: Christ's followers want to learn from him and stay close to him.

What Do You Want?

It's a common question, what any of us might ask two people following us, but that's why it matters. If they followed Jesus for an ordinary reason as an ordinary man, the question might remain (sadly) ordinary. But what if they trailed behind this stranger with the unreasonable hope that maybe he could satisfy a nameless hunger (John 6), reveal a freeing truth (John 8), and offer an eternal life (John 4)? They wanted something. Jesus asked what it was.

And you, you want something too. As you follow behind the Lord today, what honest answer would you give if he turned around and asked, "What are you seeking?" If you don't like the way things are going in your walk with Christ, the best way to change that is to change what you want (Matt. 7:7).

What Do You Call Him?

Their answer was as straightforward as the question, but it set them on a path to knowing Jesus. "'Rabbi' (which means Teacher), 'where are you staying?'" (John 1:38b). First, they recognized Jesus as the extraordinary Teacher. Jesus spoke with authority, humility, and sincerity, which stood in stark contrast to the other teachers of his day. Does he instruct you, direct your heart, and provide you with answers to the mysteries of life in ways no one else can? If you've ever wrestled to understand your role in this world and God's plan for your life, the Rabbi has the answers!

Where Are You Staying?

They didn't stop at acknowledging his authority, they wanted to spend more time with him. And Jesus wasn't too busy for them — he invited them along! "He said to them, 'Come and you will see.' So they came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour" (John 1:38). Wherever Jesus stays, that's the place to be. He wants you with him too, because he cares about you. So what do you want?