In Greek, the subject of the verb decided is literally “he,” but all commentators understand it to be a reference to Jesus, and a number of translations make this information explicit.

The text does not make clear where Jesus found Philip. Some believe that Jesus found Philip before he set out for Galilee, while others maintain that he did not find him until after his arrival there, that is, west of the Jordan River. (The earlier incidents occurred on the east side of the river, verse 28.) There is no certainty in this matter, but 2.1 may hint that Jesus called Philip and Nathanael before going to Galilee.

As suggested in connection with 1.41, it is necessary to select carefully an equivalent of the verb “find.” It should not be suggested that Philip was lost and that Jesus went looking for him and found him. The context suggests “came across Philip.” Again, a rendering suggesting that what Jesus did was merely accidental and unintentional must be avoided. One can say “he went to where Philip was.”

Come with me translates the same verb discussed in 1.37. The command addressed to Philip is an invitation to become a follower of Jesus. In some languages the equivalent is “Join with me” or “Become one of my followers.”

Quoted with permission from Newman, Barclay M. and Nida, Eugene A. A Handbook on the Gospel of John. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1980. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .