John 1:42 Meaning and Explanation
“And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Andrew brings Simon to Jesus, who looks at him and gives him a new name: Cephas, a stone.
What Does John 1:42 Mean?
And he brought him to Jesus: five words that changed history. Jesus looks at Simon and sees past the moment, past the impulsive fisherman, to the man he will become. As God once gave new names to Abram and to Jacob at turning points of covenant, Jesus renames Simon: Cephas, a stone.
Simon had done nothing yet. No confession, no walking on water, no denial, no restoration; the name was promise, not report. Christ names people by their destiny and then patiently makes the name come true. He still looks at us that way, seeing not only what we are but what his grace will finish.
John 1:42 in the Original Language
kephas (Κηφᾶς), 'Cephas' -- Aramaic kepha, 'rock'; in Greek, Petros, Peter.
Frequently Asked Questions About John 1:42
What does John 1:42 mean?
Andrew brings Simon to Jesus, who looks at him and gives him a new name: Cephas, a stone.