Bartholomew (Nathanael)
Bartholomew, also identified as Nathanael in the Gospel of John, was one of the twelve apostles selected by Jesus. After Philip told him about Jesus of Nazareth, Nathanael expressed initial skepticism about whether anything good could come from that town, yet Jesus immediately discerned his character and private moment under a fig tree, declaring him an Israelite in whom there was no deceit. This led Nathanael to affirm Jesus as the Son of God and King of Israel, prompting his call to discipleship. The account in John 1 illustrates Jesus' supernatural knowledge and the role of personal encounter in fostering authentic faith among the apostles, a theme echoed in the lists of the Twelve in the Synoptic Gospels.
Biography
- Occupation
- Apostle
- Era
- New Testament
- Nationality
- Jewish, Galilean
- Also Known As
- Nathanael
Did You Know?
Nathanael, identified by scholars as the apostle Bartholomew, received Jesus' rare commendation as "an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit," an allusion contrasting him with the biblical Jacob's cunning nature from Genesis.
While sitting under a fig tree. A common ancient Jewish setting for Torah study or prayer. Nathanael was supernaturally observed by Jesus from afar, prompting his immediate confession of faith in John 1:48-49.
His hometown of Cana in Galilee, mentioned explicitly in John 21:2, places him at the site of Jesus' first miracle, suggesting possible presence at the wedding feast though unnamed there.
The name Bartholomew, meaning "son of Tolmai," appears in the apostolic lists of the Synoptic Gospels while John alone uses Nathanael, reflecting the first-century practice of using patronymics alongside personal names.
Nathanael is one of only seven disciples explicitly named in the post-resurrection appearance by the Sea of Tiberias in John 21, indicating his continued leadership role among the apostles after the crucifixion.
Key Passages
Nathanael Called
John 1:45-51
This passage shows how Jesus sees our honest doubts and hidden moments, gently drawing us from skepticism into deeper faith.
45hilip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.
Listed Among the Twelve
Matthew 10:2-4
This passage shows that Jesus deliberately includes ordinary, lesser-known people like Bartholomew among his closest followers.
2ow the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;