Nathaniel of Cana, the only support of his infirm parents, joined Jesus and his disciples on their journey to Galilee at the age of 25 in A.D. 26. [1] Nathaniel, chosen as apostle, joined Jesus after being convinced by Philip. [2]
Nathaniel, the apostolic philosopher and dreamer, was the odd genius among the twelve, offering profound philosophy alongside rare humor and becoming the group's controlling influence throughout the tragic day. [3] Judas Iscariot, selected by Nathaniel, was the only Judean among Jesus' apostles and had a troubled past with his Sadducee parents disowning him. [4] Nathaniel watched over apostles' families diligently, ensuring their needs were met and providing funds as required. [5] Nathaniel, well-educated and the youngest of seven, was the only support for his aged parents in Cana and had aspirations of becoming a merchant. [6]
Nathaniel, chosen as the last apostle by Jesus, was introduced by his business partner Philip to the Master while on their way to see John the Baptist. [7] Nathaniel was a personal worker, conducting classes for special groups of inquirers alongside Philip, Thomas, and Simon. [8]
During a week of illness, Nathaniel and James Zebedee suffered from a painful digestive disturbance, prompting Jesus to minister to his afflicted apostles instead of using instant healing. [9] Nathaniel, who attended session of Sanhedrin, met Jesus after he spoke about the Father and faced accusations of blasphemy from the Pharisees. [10]
Nathaniel asked Jesus about the place of justice and mercy in the teachings of the kingdom, seeking clarification on the laws of Moses and the rigorous requirements of apostleship. [11] Nathaniel delivered a powerful speech on “Supreme Desire” to a small group, highlighting the importance of wholehearted love for the Master. [12] Nathaniel taught the art of teaching in a daily company training session led by Jesus and other apostles. [13]
Nathaniel taught that ability and faithfulness are key factors in determining life's opportunities and rewards, as illustrated in the parables of talents and pounds. [14]
Nathaniel, by calling attention to Jesus’ teachings regarding nonresistance, influenced the apostles to refrain from using their swords in defense of Jesus. [15] Throughout the tragic day of resurrection Sunday, Nathaniel's philosophic counsel proved to be the controlling influence among the apostles. [16] During discussions with Rodan, Nathaniel and Thomas delved into harmonizing Greek philosophy with Jesus' teachings. [17] Nathaniel understood the strategic purpose behind Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, showing poise and confidence in the Master's wisdom and foresight. [18]
Jesus’ admonitions to Nathaniel: “Judge not by appearances; remain firm in your faith when all appears to vanish; be true to your commission as an ambassador of the kingdom.”. [19] Jesus’ talk with Nathaniel about Scriptures enlightened and shocked him to the core. [20]
“Can any good come out of Nazareth?” - Nathaniel initially questioned, but upon meeting Jesus, he quickly changed his mind. [21]
Nathaniel, though cursed with suspicion, over-individualism, pride, and prejudice, ultimately learned to serve with undivided affection and tireless affection for his fellow men, proving that love, faith, and trust can conquer even the most destructive personal tendencies. [22] Jesus called Nathaniel a genuine Israelite without deceit, recognizing his honesty and sincerity. [23] Nathaniel was hurt by the supposition that Jesus misunderstood him, yet his thought-provoking question astonished and challenged the other apostles. [24]
Nathaniel opposed the change in gospel to resurrection of Jesus, but eventually withdrew and preached the gospel as he understood it beyond Mesopotamia. [25] Nathaniel opposed proclaiming Jesus king, despite the rising enthusiasm of the people and the support of some of the apostles. [26] Nathaniel, the apostolic odd genius, balanced serious philosophy with rare, droll humor, never taking himself seriously. [27]
Nathaniel witnessed Jesus' appearances in Galilee after his resurrection, experiencing his teachings and commands firsthand. [28]
Nathaniel's father, Bartholomew, died shortly after Pentecost, leading him to travel to Mesopotamia and India to spread the teachings of his Master before his own death in India. [29] Nathaniel spent one year in Philadelphia with Abner after disagreeing with Peter over preaching about Jesus. [30] Nathaniel preached the gospel beyond Mesopotamia and India, ultimately dying in India after spreading his Master's teachings. [31]
See also: UB 139:6; UB 143:3.5; UB 144:1.7; UB 151:2.3; UB 164:0.1; UB 192:4.7.