As election season approaches, we are constantly bombarded with endorsements and campaigns from various political figures. We’re asked to pick sides, align with a candidate, and promote their vision for the future. But in the midst of all the noise, the question arises: who are we ultimately endorsing in our lives? John 1:35–2:12 gives us a powerful glimpse into what it means to endorse Jesus and stand behind His platform, one that offers eternal hope and transformation far beyond any political promise.

Come and See

In John 1:35–51, we see a series of personal endorsements of Jesus, and each one invites us to do the same.

The first endorsement comes from John the Baptist. In the midst of his own successful ministry, when many people were following him, John does something surprising. Upon seeing Jesus, he declares, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” (v.36). In that moment, John points away from himself and toward the One he knows is far greater. This is the ultimate endorsement—John acknowledges that Jesus is the Savior, the one who can take away the sins of the world. As a result, two of John’s own disciples immediately leave him and follow Jesus. John’s endorsement reminds us that our role, like his, is not to build our own platform or following, but to point others to Jesus.

In election season, people often align themselves with a political leader, endorsing their vision and policies. But as believers, our primary endorsement should always be Jesus. Like John the Baptist, are we willing to set aside our own influence and point people to Christ, even if it means letting go of our personal ambitions?

Next, Andrew, one of the disciples who began following Jesus, goes to find his brother Simon Peter and says, “We have found the Messiah” (v.41). Andrew’s endorsement of Jesus is personal and immediate—he can’t keep the news to himself. This simple act of sharing Jesus with his brother has a profound impact, as Peter will go on to become one of the key leaders of the early church.

In this season of endorsements, who are we sharing Jesus with? Andrew’s example challenges us to not only endorse Jesus in our own lives but to invite others into that relationship. A simple invitation can change the course of someone’s life, just as it did for Peter.

Finally, Philip follows Andrew’s lead and invites Nathanael to meet Jesus, saying “We have found Him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph” (v.45). When Nathanael expresses doubt, Philip doesn’t argue with him. Instead, he simply says, “Come and see” (v.46). Philip’s endorsement is not about convincing Nathanael with a long explanation; it’s an invitation to encounter Jesus firsthand.

In a world filled with skepticism and division, Philip’s response is a powerful example for us. When people question our faith or express doubt, we don’t need to engage in endless debates. Instead, like Philip, we can simply invite them to “come and see”—to encounter Jesus personally and experience the truth of who He is.

The Platform of Our Bridegroom

The book of John is composed of 7 ‘I AM ‘statements and 7 signs. John signals to us that turning water into wine at this wedding in Cana is his first sign. It’s almost as if John is saying “come and see” this king and what’s his kingdom is all about. In the world of politics, we’re tuned into rallies and debates. Why? We want to know what each candidate stands for, their policies and platforms. Will they be for us? Jesus wants us to know, from his miracle, that he is indeed for us. Here are three aspects of Jesus' platform that are revealed in this story:

1. Transformation
   At the wedding, when the wine runs out, Jesus turns ordinary water into extraordinary wine. He doesn’t just provide wine to fill the need—He provides wine of the highest quality, so much so that the master of the banquet is astonished. Jesus’ platform is one of radical transformation. He takes the ordinary and makes it extraordinary. And this is what He does in our lives. Jesus doesn't just improve us; He transforms us from the inside out, making us new creations.
   Politicians often promise change, but Jesus offers transformation—complete, eternal change that goes beyond temporary fixes. In endorsing Jesus, we’re embracing His power to transform not just our circumstances, but our hearts and lives.

2. Abundance
   When Jesus turns water into wine, He doesn’t make just enough to get by. He provides an abundance—far more than the guests could drink. And the wine He creates is the best wine, the kind that should have been served first. This speaks to Jesus’ platform of abundance. He doesn’t offer scarcity or limited blessings—He offers life to the fullest. Jesus said in John 10:10, “I have come that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” His platform isn’t about just meeting basic needs, but about filling our lives with overflowing grace and joy.
   In election season, politicians may promise prosperity, but Jesus promises something even better: abundant, eternal life. His platform invites us into a fullness that surpasses any material success or worldly security.

3. Ultimate Salvation
   This miracle, while amazing in itself, points to something much greater. When Mary first asks Jesus to help with the wine, His response is surprising: “My hour has not yet come” (v.4). Jesus is referring to the cross, the ultimate purpose for which He came. The miracle of water to wine is a foretaste of the greater miracle He would accomplish through His death and resurrection—offering His blood for the salvation of the world. While politicians may focus on promises for this life, Jesus’ platform points to something eternal. His platform isn’t about temporary solutions; it’s about the eternal redemption He accomplished through His sacrificial death. Jesus is the Lamb of God, as John the Baptist declared, and His ultimate mission is to bring us into right relationship with God through His sacrifice.

As we navigate this election season, we are asked to make choices, to endorse candidates, and to align with platforms. But let’s not lose sight of the most important endorsement we will ever make: endorsing Jesus Christ. He offers a platform that no politician can rival—one of transformation, abundance, and eternal life.

Let us endorse Him with our lives, point others to Him, and extend the same invitation Philip did: “Come and see.” Come and see the One who changes everything.