John 1:38

What seek ye? These are the first words of Jesus that are reported by John (cf. Luke 2:49).

Rabbi. Gr. rhabbi, from the Aramaic rabi, meaning “my great one,” generally equivalent to “sir,” but used also in a more restricted sense as a title of distinction and respect for a teacher of the law (see on Matt. 23:7). It has been suggested that, in the latter sense, the word had but recently come into use.

In John, “rabbi” is consistently the term used in addressing Jesus by those who recognize Him as a teacher, perhaps even a prophet, but who either do not as yet realize, or who are unwilling to admit, that He is the Messiah (see chs. 1:38, 49; 3:2; 4:31; 6:25; 9:2; 11:8). Those for whom Jesus performed miracles often called Him “Lord” (chs. 9:36; 11:3, 21, 27, 32). In the early part of their association with Jesus the disciples are quoted by John as calling Him “Rabbi,” but with a deepening conviction that He is indeed the Sent of God they later call Him “Lord” (chs. 6:68; 11:12; 13:6, 25; 14:5, 8, 22; 21:15, 20; etc.). After the resurrection the title “Lord” is always used of Jesus (1 Cor. 16:22), never “Rabbi.” The synoptic writers do not discriminate between these titles as does John. The Baptist’s disciples called him “rabbi” (John 3:26).

Those who addressed Jesus as “Rabbi” thereby expressed their willingness to learn of Him, whereas those who addressed Him as “Lord” (Aramaic Mari, Gr. Kurios) thereby expressed either common respect, or the unquestioning submission of servants. However, the terms were often used without any clear sense of distinction between them.

Being interpreted. Writing for Greek readers, John often provides the original Aramaic words of our Lord, but always translates them into Greek (chs. 1:41, 42; 4:25; 5:2; 9:7; 11:16; 19:13, 17; 20:16, 24; 21:2).

Where dwellest thou? Andrew and John desire a more prolonged and personal interview than seems appropriate in a public place.