JACOB’S LADDER

JOHN 1:50–51

Most assuredly, I say to you, hereafter you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man

(John 1:51).

Deeply moved by Jesus’ penetrating knowledge of his own soul, Nathaniel made a glorious proclamation: “Rabbi, You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Jesus responded by saying, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe?’ ” Hendricksen maintains that we should not read this question as a disparaging remark regarding Nathaniel’s immediate response of faith. It is because Nathaniel believed on the basis of so little evidence that he would receive even greater revelations as a reward.

What are these “greater things”? “You shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.” The reference is to Jacob’s ladder in Genesis 28. In this account, Jacob had a dream in which he saw a ladder standing on the earth, its top reaching to heaven. Ascending and descending along the ladder were the angels of God. Then Jacob hears God’s voice: “And in your seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed.” This prophecy finds its fulfillment in Christ, who was symbolized by the ladder in Jacob’s dream. Only Christ is the link between heaven and earth, the bond of union between God and man, the One who by means of His life and sacrifice reconciles God to man. With faith, His disciples will be able to see Him in that light—as the fulfillment of Jacob’s dream, the blessing of all the nations.

And so, Jesus’ reference to Jacob’s ladder can be seen as a multi-faceted promise to Nathaniel for His faith.

First, Nathaniel had just glimpsed Jesus’ omniscience in action. He would continue to see this divine attribute in action throughout Christ’s life, as Jesus’ all-knowing gaze penetrated into the very souls of men and women.

What’s more, Nathaniel had declared Christ to be the Son of God. As a result, Nathaniel would grow in understanding of Jesus’ breaching the gap between men and God.

Finally, Nathaniel’s proclamation that Jesus was the King of Israel would be rewarded by a clearer, more spiritual understanding of the kingdom of God—and the kingship of the Son of Man.

CORAM DEO

Exodus 25–26

Matthew 21

WEEKEND

Exodus 27–30

Matthew 22

As a reward for Nathaniel’s simple faith, Jesus promised him that he would see even greater things concerning the Messiah and His role as redeemer and king. Consider how your knowledge of Christ has increased since you first came to know Him. Thank God for His gracious provision.

For further study: Gen. 28:10–22 • Dan. 7:9–14 • Rom. 5:6–11