Investigating Jesus (Jn. 1:35-39)

This paragraph is about two people who received an invitation from Jesus. (When Jesus gives an invitation, people are wise to accept it!)  What was Jesus' invitation?  "Come and you will see." (Jn. 1:39).  Right now, Jesus extends that invitation to you.  It is natural there might be some hesitation.  It is fair to ask, "What should I expect when I investigate Jesus?"

• When you investigate Jesus, you will find His claims too great to ignore.  What claim did John make about Jesus?  John called Him "The Lamb of God" (Jn. 1:36).  Earlier, John was more specific:  "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" (Jn. 1:29).  That claim will make you think!  It makes you think about sin.  What is sin?  It makes you think about yourself.  If there is sin, there must be people who do it.  What is a sinner?  Am I a sinner? (Rom. 3:23).  It makes you think about relief.  What must I do to get rid of sin?  What you must decide is this:  If John's claim about Jesus is true, what does that require of me?  
• When you investigate Jesus, there will be a progression. 
• The progression starts with hearing.  The two men heard what John said about Jesus.  What claims have you heard?  Perhaps you heard someone say, "Jesus is the only way to heaven."  Maybe you heard someone say, "Jesus is the only true God."  Easter Sunday you heard that "Jesus is the only living God."  It's likely you heard someone say, "Jesus wants to come into your life and have a relationship with you."  
• The progression starts with hearing and continues with following.  The two not only heard but they followed (Jn. 1:37).  They walked with Jesus to where He was going.  Jesus wants to take your life in a new direction! 
• The progression ends with staying (Jn. 1:39).  You heard the claims about Jesus and you're curious.  It is not enough to be curious.  Being curious only means you're interested.  You started following Jesus and now you're serious.  It is not enough to be serious.  Being serious only means you're committed.  You must be more than interested and more than committed.  You must be surrendered.  Jesus must be more to you than a Sunday timeslot, a holiday hobby, a daily diversion or a  fascinating historical personality.  Jesus wants you to stay with Him.  He's entertained enough guests.  Guests stay for a prearranged time and then leave.  Jesus wants you to stay.     
• When you investigate Jesus, He will question you.  Jesus asked His question before the two  men asked theirs.  It's always wise to let Jesus speak first! "What do you seek?" (Jn. 1:38).  You are searching for something.  Even if you find what you think you're looking for, will it satisfy you?  

Poor I was, and sought for riches,
Something that would satisfy,
But the dust I gathered 'round me
Only mocked my soul's sad cry.
Hallelujah! I have found Him,
Whom my soul so long has craved!
Jesus satisfies my longings;
Through His blood I now am saved.
--  Clara T. Williams

• When you investigate Jesus, you will find Him to be a gracious host.  Jesus allowed the men to question Him, walk with Him, stay with Him.  He never forced anything but respected their choice.  He knew some things are better caught than taught. Oh, what might rub off on you when you hang out with Jesus!