John 1:35-51, John's Story 2

In the first chapter of John's gospel we are introduced to Nathanael...and we are given a very glowing description of him! And yet, we do not hear of him agan until he's one of the seven in the boat in the second ending of John's gospel.

The question is this: What was John's intention in his first chapter when he presents us Nathanael?

Here's something to think about and you may want to reread John 1:35-51 first.

I am reminded of Paul in this description of Nathanael. In John 7:52, it is the Pharisees who say, "prophets do not come out of Galilee." It is Paul who sees in the risen Jesus the fulfillment of the Scriptures. It is Paul who was trained under the "fig tree." It is Paul that the risen Jesus himself has chosen as the instrument to make known the "Son of God" to the gentiles. It is Paul who speaks what is true, there is no deceit in him! It is "Philip" in the Acts that introduces the conversion of Saul.

When we see Nathanael as one of the seven "loaves" in the "boat" in John's Story 31, does John want us to see Paul, who begins this mission to the gentiles with Peter, instead?

And there is more in those first verses about Peter in John 1:35-51 than first glance might indicate...I propose that this second Story in John is a post-resurrection Story.