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What the Fathers say
Eastern Fathers
John Chrysostom
"Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found Him of whom Moses in the Law and the Prophets did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." He says this, to make his preaching credible, which it must be if it rests on Moses and the Prophets besides, and by this to abash his hearer. For since Nathanael was an exact man, and one who viewed all things with truth, as Christ also testified and the event showed, Philip with reason refers him to Moses and the Prophets, that so he might receive Him who was preached. …
Cyril of Alexandria
Exceeding swift was the disciple unto the bearing fruit, that hereby he might shew himself akin in disposition to them that had preceded. For he findeth Nathanael, not simply meeting him coming along, but making diligent search for him. For he knew that he was most painstaking and fond of learning. Then he says that he had found the Christ Who was heralded through all the Divine Scripture, addressing himself not as to one ignorant, but as to one exceedingly well instructed in the learning both of all-wise Moses and of the prophets. …
Theophylact of Ohrid
Philip also does not keep the good to himself, but passes it on to Nathanael, and since Nathanael was learned in the law, Philip refers him to the law and the prophets, because he diligently studied the law. He calls the Lord the Son "of Joseph," because at that time they still considered Him to be the Son of Joseph. He calls Him "Nazarene," although He was properly a Bethlehemite, because He was born in Bethlehem but raised in Nazareth. …
Western Saints
Augustine of Hippo
The person to whom our Lord's mother had been betrothed. The Christians know from the Gospel, that He was conceived and born of an undefiled mother. He adds the place too, of Nazareth.
Thomas Aquinas
Now the fruit produced by the disciple who was converted to Christ is given. First, the beginning of the fruit, coming from this disciple. Secondly, its consummation by Christ (v 47). As to the first, he does three things: first, the statement of Philip is given; secondly, Nathanael's response; and thirdly, Philip's ensuing advice. As to the first, note that just as Andrew, after having been perfectly converted, was eager to lead his brother to Christ, so too Philip with regard to his brother, Nathanael. …
Bonaventure
"Philip found Nathanael." Here the calling of the wise man is touched upon, which was made through the mediation of the simple. Therefore he says: "Philip found Nathanael." Just as he himself had been found by Christ, so also he found Nathanael; Bede: "See this hunter, how intent he was on capturing souls." Whence it also follows: "And he says to him: Him of whom Moses wrote in the Law, and the Prophets": it is written. …
Translation