ESV Reformation Study Bible – John 1:49
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John 1:49

1:49 Rabbi, you are the Son of God. Nathanael’s confession may seem like an overreaction to Jesus’ supernatural knowledge. But Philip had already indicated to Nathanael that Jesus was the One anticipated by the Law and the Prophets (v. 45). Nathanael comes to Jesus looking for reasons to believe or disbelieve, and he finds Jesus’ knowledge convincing.

King of Israel. This is a title for the Messiah, used in shouts of praise at the Triumphal Entry (12:13), similar to the announcement of the wise men (Matt. 2:2) and to the inscription on the cross (19:19).