Twelve Ordinary Men by John MacArthur
Week 6: Chapter 5 — Philip: The Practical Skeptic
Read Chapter 5 of Twelve Ordinary Men. Key passages: John 1:43–46; John 6:5–7; John 12:21–22; John 14:8–9.
Philip is a fascinating figure — diligent, methodical, always calculating the costs — and MacArthur finds in him a picture of the kind of faith that grows slowly but genuinely.
Discussion Questions
8 questions1.Philip was the first apostle Jesus directly approached with the call 'Follow Me' (John 1:43). Yet MacArthur describes Philip as a cautious, analytical thinker. What combination of qualities do you think Jesus saw in Philip that made him worth calling?
2.Philip immediately went and found Nathanael, telling him, 'We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote' (John 1:45). MacArthur notes that Philip grounded his conviction in Scripture, not merely experience. Why is it significant that his witness was anchored in the Word rather than just personal enthusiasm?
3.When Nathanael expressed skepticism ('Can anything good come out of Nazareth?'), Philip's response was simply, 'Come and see.' MacArthur holds this up as a model of evangelism. What makes 'Come and see' such an effective and honest invitation? When is it better to argue, and when is it better to simply invite?
Closing Prayer
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