John 1:47 Commentary and Bible Study

‘Behold an Israelite indeed’ – This is not an ethnic statement, but describes one who belongs to the Israel of God, who is a Jew inwardly. ‘In whom is no guile’ – he was not drawn to Messiah as many were, based on a popular view of him as a political leader. But here is a man – and Christ knew this before he had even spoken with him – here is a man, Nathanael, who is a sincere believer in the promise that Messiah is coming, who lives before God in sincerity. Jesus of Nazareth looks at him and identifies this. ‘I can see,’ he says in effect, ‘you are a sincere person, you believe the things you read. You are humbled before the Lord. You mean your repentance, you strive to avoid sin. You are longing for Messiah to come. You trust in the forgiveness of God.’