These verses are descriptive, not prescriptive. They describe how the first two disciples came to follow Jesus. Every Christian becomes a disciple and follower of Jesus in their own way. There is no required methodology for arriving at the truth. However this description of how the first two disciples came to know and follow Jesus reveals an attitude and mindset that would be beneficial for all Christians. Jesus did not call everyone of John’s disciples who followed him to become an apostle. These two men had characteristics that made them suitable for special ministry in building God’s kingdom.

Before they ever saw Jesus, they were already searching for the truth and searching for righteousness. Their hearts were turned towards God and knowing and doing his will. They were disciples of John the Baptist. They had followed him into the desert to hear him preach and to be baptized as an outward sign of their inward repentance. They were standing with John when Jesus walked by and John said, “Look, the Lamb of God!” John had been teaching them to look for the Messiah. When they saw him they immediately did what John had taught them to do; they followed Jesus.

When Jesus asked them they wanted, they call Jesus “Rabbi.” Rabbi is a Hebrew word that means teacher. They wanted Jesus to be their teacher. They wanted to learn what Jesus wanted to teach. It is doubtful they knew what they did not know. But they did know that they did not know enough and that Jesus was the one to teach them. They knew that Jesus was the Messiah, but three years later they still would be learning what that meant, and even though they continue to follow Jesus for the rest of their lives, they never stop learning and Jesus never stop teaching.

Many people follow Jesus, but he does not call them all to full-time Christian ministry. Jesus calls leaders who have a thirst for truth. When we desire to learn, Jesus becomes our teacher.