Family Adventure ❤️

First Disciples: An Invitation to Follow Jesus

Storybook-style illustration of the first disciples following Jesus near the Jordan River, with Alice in a pink heart shirt and Mr. Fluffernutter the white bunny gazing up from behind. Includes Andrew, Peter, Philip, and Nathanael walking toward Jesus, as John the Baptist points to Him. Soft colors and pastoral scenery create a warm, inviting scene based on John 1:39, 'Come and See.'

By Alice

Contents

Key Takeaways:

  • Focus keyphrase: First Disciples “Come and See”.
  • Discipleship begins with curiosity and grows through time with Jesus.
  • Inviting others (Andrew→Simon; Philip→Nathanael) is simple and powerful.
  • Honest questions can lead to deeper faith when brought to Jesus.
  • Families can echo “Come and see” with weekly invites and prayer.

Hi, friends! 🐰✨Guess what? Mr. Fluffernutter and I just read a story so exciting, our ears practically wiggled with joy! 💫 It’s about the very first people who decided to follow Jesus—ordinary folks like fishermen and friends who took one small step that changed everything.

These amazing people didn’t know all the answers. They didn’t have fancy scrolls or sparkly halos. But you know what they did have? Hearts that were ready to listen. And when they heard Jesus speak, something inside them whispered, “Come closer.”

So they did. Andrew heard first and couldn’t wait to tell his brother Simon. Philip found his buddy Nathanael and said the most powerful words:

“Come and see!”

(Want a full Sunday‑School‑ready lesson on Philip and Nathanael? Check out this “Jesus Calls Philip and Nathanael” lesson plan—with crafts, story ideas, and follow‑up questions!)

That’s all it took—an invitation, a little curiosity, and a lot of courage. And just like that, they began an adventure with Jesus that changed everything.

Download the Family Study PDF

Kid-friendly flow with questions, journaling space, memory verse, and a simple activity plan.

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So today, as we hop into this story together, let’s ask ourselves:

  • 💭 What if we listened for Jesus calling our name too?
  • 💭 What if we invited others to come and see with us?

Mr. Fluffernutter says, “It only takes one hop to start a holy journey.” 🐾 Let’s take that first hop together! 🌈✨ (Want to keep hopping? Explore how Jesus offered something even more amazing—Living Water that never runs out!)

TL;DR

Jesus invites curious hearts to “come and see.” Andrew brings Simon; Philip brings Nathanael. Questions meet real answers, and families today can echo this by inviting, asking, and walking with Jesus together.


Jesus standing on a red staircase, arms raised in radiant light, surrounded by disciples and birds, symbolizing divine calling and spiritual awakening.

💌 A Life-Changing Invitation

Okay—close your eyes (but not for too long!) and picture this with me: 🐰🌿

You’re standing by the Jordan River. The water splashes gently over rocks. The breeze carries the smell of fresh reeds and maybe a hint of wild honey from a nearby bee. Birds sing like they’re excited too, and everyone is leaning in, eyes sparkling, listening to a man named John the Baptist.

And then… it happens.

John suddenly points and calls out:

“Behold the Lamb of God!” — John 1:36

Everyone gasps. Who? Him?

Two of John’s followers—one of them named Andrew—start walking toward the man John pointed to: Jesus. Their hearts are pounding. Their feet are moving almost without thinking. Something inside them says, “Go.”

🐾 “What Are You Looking For?”

Jesus turns and sees them coming. He doesn’t shoo them away. He smiles. Then He asks the gentlest, most curious question:

“What are you looking for?” — John 1:38

Can you imagine being asked that by Jesus? 💭

Andrew and his friend don’t have a big speech ready. They just ask, “Where are you staying?”—which really means, “Can we spend time with you?”

And Jesus answers with three little words that changed the world:

“Come and see.”

🌅 One Small Step… A Forever Journey

That invitation was more than just “come over and hang out.” It meant:

  • ✨ Come walk with Me.
  • ✨ Come discover who I am.
  • ✨ Come find the truth your heart has been waiting for.

So they did.

They took a step forward—and in doing that, they began a brand-new life they never could have imagined. Miracles, stories, learning, love, laughter, and challenges… all waiting on the road ahead.

And the river? It kept flowing quietly nearby, just like God’s promises—always moving, always there.

Fun Fact: “Rabbi” means teacher. Asking “Where are you staying?” was a respectful way of saying, “May we learn from you?”

Kid-Safe Links:

FAQ

Why did Jesus say “Come and see” instead of giving a long speech?

Because discipleship grows through time with Him — listening, watching, and asking questions.


Cartoon-style illustration of Jesus with open arms and radiant heart, surrounded by disciples and fish, beneath the words ‘Come and See,’ inviting faith and discovery.

👀 What Does “Come and See” Mean?

Mr. Fluffernutter and I were talking (okay, I talked and he nodded a lot) about the moment Jesus said,

“Come and see.”

And we both agreed—it wasn’t just an invitation to hang out and sip tea. ☕✨

Jesus was opening the door to something much bigger. That little phrase meant:

  • 💛 “Come learn who I really am.”
  • 🌈 “Come walk with Me and watch your life change.”
  • 🌟 “Come find a love that never ends.”

🗣️ Andrew Couldn’t Keep It In!

After spending just a little time with Jesus, Andrew’s heart was so full, he could hardly stay still! He ran to his brother Simon and blurted out:

“We have found the Messiah!” — John 1:41

Can you imagine saying something so big and true that it makes your voice shake with joy?

That’s what happened to Andrew. And when Simon (later known as Peter) came to meet Jesus, something incredible happened…

🪨 A New Name, A New Purpose

Jesus looked at Simon and said,

“You are Simon… you will be called Peter.”

That’s right—Jesus gave him a brand-new name! 🐾 Not just for fun, but to show what was inside him. The name Peter means “rock,” and it meant that Jesus saw strength, bravery, and leadership in him—even before Peter saw it in himself!

Mr. Fluffernutter whispered,

“It’s like Jesus can see the superhero inside you, even when you feel ordinary.”

And I think that’s exactly what makes this so beautiful.

✨ Jesus Sees Who We’re Meant to Be

Sometimes we feel unsure, shy, or like we don’t know where we fit. But Jesus sees more than we do—He sees the whole picture. He knows who we can become when we follow Him:

  • 💪 Strong in faith.
  • 💡 Brave in truth.
  • 💖 Full of love.

That’s what “Come and see” really means. It’s a gentle way of saying,

“You don’t have to have it all figured out. Just come walk with Me… and watch what happens.”

Family Activity — “Invite One” Challenge

  1. Pray for one person you care about.
  2. Write a kind invite (playdate, youth night, or family devotional time).
  3. Share what you love about Jesus in one sentence.

Supplies: paper, crayons/markers, sticky notes

Kid-Safe Links:

FAQ

What if I feel shy about inviting someone?

Start with prayer and a note. Kindness lowers walls, and small invites are still mighty.


Epic classical-style painting of Jesus speaking to an angel amidst glowing clouds over a vast city, with disciples watching in awe, symbolizing divine guidance.

🌳 Nathanael’s Skepticism Turns to Faith

Okay, here’s where the story gets really interesting.

When Philip ran to tell his friend Nathanael about Jesus, Nathanael didn’t jump for joy or shout “Hooray!” like we might expect. Nope. Instead, he squinted and said:

“Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” — John 1:46

Yikes. 😬 Mr. Fluffernutter and I looked at each other like, “Uh-oh, someone’s feeling extra skeptical today!”

But Philip didn’t argue. He didn’t make a big speech or try to prove Jesus with a list of facts. He just smiled and said:

“Come and see.”

Three little words. A gentle nudge. An open invitation.

🐾 Letting People Discover for Themselves

Sometimes, when someone has doubts or questions about faith, it’s easy to want to explain everything all at once. But Philip shows us something really wise:

The best way to help someone meet Jesus… is to help them meet Jesus.

Not through debate. Not through pressure. But by saying:

  • ✨ “Come sit with us.”
  • ✨ “Come listen.”
  • ✨ “Come experience it for yourself.”

Philip trusted that one moment with Jesus would be more powerful than a hundred arguments. And guess what? He was right.

👀 Jesus Sees the Heart

When Nathanael finally walked toward Jesus, he wasn’t expecting anything special. But then—before Nathanael said a single word—Jesus said:

“Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.” — John 1:48

WHOA. 🌳💫

Nathanael froze. How did Jesus know that?

In that quiet moment, Nathanael realized something powerful:
Jesus had seen him. Truly seen him. Not just with eyes, but with understanding, with love, with truth.

Suddenly, all the doubt melted like morning mist. Nathanael gasped and said:

“Rabbi, You are the Son of God. You are the King of Israel!”

💛 What This Teaches Us

Fluffernutter says it best:

“Sometimes the biggest faith comes from the smallest step.”

Nathanael went from “Nothing good comes from there” to “You are the Son of God”—just by showing up. Just by being open.

So if you ever feel unsure, or if someone you love has big questions, remember:
Jesus already sees.
He knows your heart.
And He’s saying the same thing He said back then:

“Come and see.”

Fun Fact: Jesus praised Nathanael’s honest heart. Questions aren’t enemies of faith; they can be doors opening to truth.

Kid-Safe Links:

FAQ

Are doubts wrong for Christians?

Honest doubts can become pathways to growth when we bring them to Jesus and Scripture.


Bold modern Christian poster featuring Jesus ascending stairs as people gather, with vibrant lettering saying ‘Faith begins with a step’ and ‘Sharing Jesus is powerful.’

🌟 What Can We Learn?

Mr. Fluffernutter and I love stories—but not just for the adventure. We love them because they teach us big truths in gentle ways. This one? It’s full of treasure!

Let’s unwrap three beautiful things we learned from the story of Jesus’ first disciples:

👣 Faith Starts with Just One Step

You don’t need to have everything figured out to follow Jesus.

Not Andrew. Not Peter. Not Nathanael. They started with questions, not answers. But when Jesus said,

“Come and see,”
they took a small step forward—and wow, look what followed!

Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is simply say,
“Okay, Jesus… I’ll come with You.”

Fluffernutter says it’s kind of like hopping into a new adventure—nervous at first, but totally worth it. 🐰✨

💛 Jesus Knows You by Heart

Remember how Jesus saw Nathanael under the fig tree before anyone else did?

He sees you like that, too. Not just on the outside—but deep inside, where your dreams, doubts, and doodles live.

And guess what? You don’t have to be perfect.
Not extra smart.
Not super brave.
Not always happy.

You just have to be you—because Jesus already knows and loves that person completely. 💖

📣 Sharing Jesus Is One of the Best Things We Can Do

Andrew ran to Peter. Philip told Nathanael. They were so excited, they couldn’t keep it to themselves!

That’s what happens when you discover something amazing—you want others to know too.

We can do that with:

  • A kind word 🌈
  • A story about how Jesus helped us 🕊️
  • Or just saying, “Come and see!” to someone who’s curious

Sharing Jesus doesn’t have to be loud or fancy. It just has to be real.

Try This: Pick one “invite day” each week. Text a friend, share a verse, or bring a neighbor cookies with a prayer note.

Kid-Safe Links:

FAQ

How can younger kids participate?

Let them draw a simple invite card, choose a verse, or pray a one-sentence prayer.


Whimsical cartoon of Mr. Fluffernutter, a white bunny with a blue bow and a cookie, standing joyfully among crowds in biblical attire, celebrating childlike faith.

🐰 Mr. Fluffernutter’s Thoughts on Following Jesus

After snuggling in with this story (and a snack, of course), Mr. Fluffernutter and I had a little chat. He wiggled his ears thoughtfully and said,

“Alice, when you find something really good—like the perfect peanut butter cracker or a new hide-and-seek spot—you have to tell your friends!”

And I nodded because… he’s right! 💡

That’s just how the first disciples felt. They didn’t keep Jesus to themselves—they shared Him with the people they loved. So, Fluffy and I came up with some brilliant bunny-approved ideas for how you can follow Jesus and share His love too!

📩 Invite Someone to Come Along

Whether it’s church, Sunday School, or even just a family devotion night—inviting a friend can make a huge difference. 🧡

You could say:

“Wanna come with me and learn about Jesus? We get to sing, color, and hear awesome stories!”

Sometimes, that’s all someone needs to feel welcome.

📖 Tell Your Jesus Story

You don’t need fancy words—just be real.

Maybe you were scared and prayed, and Jesus helped you feel brave. Maybe you were sad and remembered a verse that gave you hope. Sharing moments like that can help someone else see how real and wonderful Jesus is.

And Fluffernutter says,

“A story told from the heart is better than a hundred facts.” 🐾💬

(Looking for a hands‑on teaching moment? Try this object‑lesson sermon on John 1:29–42—a playful way to teach kids how to share Jesus’ story.)

💗 Be Kind—Like, Really Kind

Sometimes, we show Jesus’ love without even using words.

  • Help a classmate pick up spilled crayons
  • Sit with someone who’s alone
  • Say something kind instead of something sassy (even when it’s really tempting 😅)

Every time we act in love, we’re giving someone a little glimpse of Jesus.

🧼 Serve with Friends

Get your buddies together and do something helpful!

  • Clean up your neighborhood
  • Donate toys or books
  • Make cards for people in a hospital

You can even call it your own “Kindness Crew”—and let your actions be a reflection of your faith.

📱 Shine Online

Even the internet can be a place to share Jesus! 🌐✨

  • Post a Bible verse that helped you
  • Share a doodle you made about a Bible story
  • Say something nice on a friend’s photo—your words might brighten their day!

Just remember Fluffy’s rule:

“If it’s not loving, it’s not posting.”

Whether you’re handing out hugs or hashtags, the goal is the same:
Follow Jesus. Share His love. Invite others to come and see.

That’s the kind of story Fluffernutter and I want to be part of—don’t you? 🐰💕

Memory Verse Idea: “Come and see.” — John 1:39. Short, sticky, powerful.

Kid-Safe Links:

FAQ

What’s one simple next step after reading?

Text a friend: “Want to read John 1 together this week?” Then choose a day and time.


Colorful illustrated path titled ‘Come and See,’ showing people in Bible times walking through a village toward Jesus, encouraging kids to explore faith interactively.

🎉 A Fun Family Challenge

Want to follow Jesus just like Andrew, Peter, Philip, and Nathanael? (Looking for a fun activity? Check out this “Come and See” Sunday School lesson—perfect for kids to explore the story in a hands‑on way!) Mr. Fluffernutter and I think it’s the perfect time for a “Come and See” Adventure Week! 🗺️✨

These fun activities will help your family grow in faith, reflect on your journey, and share Jesus’ love with others—all while making awesome memories together. Ready? Let’s go!

🗺️ Come and See Map

Get out some markers, stickers, and imagination—it’s time to draw your Faith Map!

Here’s what to include:

  • Where your journey started (like your first prayer or Sunday School memory)
  • A favorite Bible verse that speaks to your heart
  • A moment when you felt really close to Jesus
  • A dream or prayer you’re still waiting for

Fluffernutter made one shaped like a bunny trail 🐾 but yours can look like a treasure map, a hiking path, or even a mountain climb!

Then, hang it up somewhere special. Every time you look at it, you’ll remember:

“Jesus has been walking with me the whole way.”

💌 Kindness Invitations

Here’s your mission:
Create “Come and See” cards that invite someone to join you for something meaningful—like a church picnic, family devotion night, or cozy Bible storytime.

Decorate your card with hearts, crosses, or even smiley bread loaves (Fluffernutter’s idea 🍞😄). On the back, write a note that says:

“I’d love for you to come and see what Jesus means to me.”

Even the smallest invite can open the biggest door to faith.

🔤 The Name Game

Remember how Jesus gave Simon the new name Peter, the “rock”? That name showed who he was going to become!

Gather your family and wonder together:

“What name might Jesus give me?”

Would it be Braveheart? Kindshine? Peacemaker? Joyhopper? 🌟

Think about the gifts God gave you—kindness, creativity, courage—and talk about how Jesus might use those gifts for His kingdom. It’s a fun way to remember that He sees who we are and who we’re becoming.

Then, make “name tags” or doodle badges to wear proudly. 💖


Dramatic stylized depiction of biblical figures and angels looking toward Jesus ascending into radiant light, surrounded by clouds, scripture, and heavenly imagery

🌈 A Final Thought from Me (and Mr. Fluffernutter!)

Wow, friends—what a story! Can you believe how bravely those first disciples said “yes” to Jesus?

They didn’t wait until they had it all figured out. They didn’t ask for a step-by-step guide or a how-to-follow-Jesus manual. 📘

They simply listened.
They felt something stir in their hearts.
And when Jesus said, “Come and see,” they came—and they saw everything change.

💛 That Same Invitation Is For Us, Too

Jesus is still calling out today.

Not with trumpets or lightning (though that would be pretty cool ⚡), but with a gentle whisper in our hearts that says:

“Come closer. I’ve got something wonderful to show you.”

When we answer that call—when we trust, even just a little—we begin the most exciting journey of our lives. A journey filled with love, forgiveness, adventure, and a purpose made just for you.

🕊️ Faith Isn’t About Having All the Answers

Fluffernutter says faith is like a flashlight in the dark—it might not show everything at once, but it helps you take the next step.

Following Jesus doesn’t mean being perfect. It means being willing.

Willing to ask questions.
Willing to trust when it’s hard.
Willing to share what we’ve found with someone who’s still searching.

💫 Let’s Be Shiny Little Lights

As we walk through school, through home, through friendships and fun and messes—let’s remember:
We can carry Jesus’ light wherever we go.

A smile. A kind word. A helping hand. An invitation to “come and see.” These small things light up the world.

So until next time… let’s keep walking with Jesus. Let’s keep saying “yes” to His invitation. And let’s help others feel the warmth of His love every step of the way.

Love,
Alice 💕 (and a very inspired Mr. Fluffernutter 🐰 holding a tiny flashlight)


Keep Exploring


Quick Check Quiz — “Come and See”

1) Who said “Come and see” to Nathanael?
2) What did Andrew do after meeting Jesus?
3) Faith/Character: What’s a kind way to echo “Come and see” this week?


Compare & Discern

ApproachGoalLikely Outcome
PressureWin argumentsDefensiveness
SilenceAvoid discomfortMissed opportunities
“Come and See” InvitePersonal encounterOpenness, growth

Vocabulary

TermDefinition
DiscipleA learner who follows Jesus to know and live His teaching.
RabbiTeacher; a respectful title for spiritual instructors in Jesus’ time.
TestimonySharing what God has done in your life.
InvitationA warm call to join or explore something meaningful.

Colorful children’s poster titled 'Come and See!' featuring a memory verse from John 1:39, fun Bible-themed activities like a maze, connect-the-dots, and a matching game. Includes cartoon illustrations of Jesus, disciples, and playful scenes with kids, animals, and Mr. Fluffernutter the white bunny. Designed for ages 4–9 with interactive elements and plenty of space to color.

Black-and-white coloring book-style drawing of Jesus at the riverbank, speaking to children and adults, with a bunny and young girl in the foreground listening closely.


References

CitationLink
Blogging4Adventure — Jesus and the Living WaterOpen
Blogging4Adventure — Being Born Again (John 3)Open
Blogging4Adventure — Jesus: Light of the WorldOpen
BibleGateway — John 1:35–51Open
Enduring Word — Commentary on John 1Open
GotQuestions — “Come and see”Open

Practice & Pray

First Disciples “Come and See” invites families to ask, invite, and follow together. Choose one small invite, one honest question, and one prayer this week.


Alice author avatar

Alice — Kid Author & Adventure Buddy

Young writer at Blogging4Adventure who loves crafts, questions, and Mr. Fluffernutter. Posts are reviewed by Mom & Dad; Scriptures cross-checked with trusted study tools for family safety and accuracy.


FAQ

What does “Come and see” look like for kids?

Short invites, simple prayers, and reading a few verses together with family or friends.

How often should we invite others?

Start small: once a week. Make it warm, kind, and pressure-free.

Can questions and doubts be part of discipleship?

Yes. Honest questions are welcome; Jesus meets us with truth and grace.

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