Philip
The Practical ApostleApostle from Bethsaida who brought Nathanael to Jesus and was known for his practical, calculating approach
Philip was from Bethsaida, the same town as Peter and Andrew. He immediately found Nathanael after being called and brought him to Jesus. Philip appears several times asking practical questions - calculating the cost to feed 5,000, asking to see the Father, and introducing Greeks to Jesus. Tradition says he preached in Phrygia (modern Turkey) and was martyred in Hierapolis, either by crucifixion or hanging. He should not be confused with Philip the Evangelist in Acts.
Original Name
Φίλιππος (Philippos)
Meaning
Lover of horses, fond of horses
Etymology
From Greek 'philos' (loving, fond of) and 'hippos' (horse). A common Greek name in the Hellenistic world, borne by Philip II of Macedon (Alexander the Great's father). Philip's Greek name, like Andrew's, reflects the Hellenistic influence in Galilee.
Linguistic Insights
Philip's thoroughly Greek name suggests strong Hellenistic influence in Bethsaida. This cultural background explains why Greek-speaking visitors approached him to meet Jesus (John 12:20-22). His response 'Come and see' (erchou kai ide) echoes Jesus's invitation to Andrew and becomes a model for evangelism - not arguing but inviting encounter. Philip's practical mindset shows in his calculation about feeding the 5,000: 'Two hundred denarii would not buy enough' - using the Greek monetary term 'denarion.' His question 'Show us the Father' (deixon hemin ton patera) reveals both his earnest seeking and incomplete understanding, prompting Jesus's profound response about His unity with the Father.
Translation Notes
- •Greek name common in Hellenistic world
- •Not to be confused with Philip the Evangelist (Acts 6, 8)
- •Always paired with Nathanael/Bartholomew in Synoptic lists
- •Only apostle Jesus directly commanded 'Follow me' in John's Gospel
Related Terms
Called by Jesus - 'Follow me'
John 1:43Found Nathanael and brought him to Jesus
John 1:45-46Asked about cost to feed 5,000
John 6:5-7Greeks asked Philip to see Jesus
John 12:21-22Asked Jesus to show them the Father
John 14:8-9Present at Pentecost
Acts 1:13Tradition: Martyred in Hierapolis
Church traditionJohn 1:45
"Philip found Nathanael and told him, 'We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.'"
John 1:46
"Philip said, 'Come and see.'"
John 6:7
"Eight months' wages would not buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!"
John 14:8
"Philip said, 'Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.'"
Born
c. 5 AD
Died
c. 80 AD
Lifespan
Approximately 75 years
Father
Unknown
Mother
Unknown
Spouse
Married with daughters according to tradition
Children