A Study of John 1:29-42 presents the public identification of Jesus, how he is recognized as the Messiah, and John the Baptist’s descending and Jesus’ ascending ministry.
A Study of John 1:29-42 presents the public identification of Jesus
The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! (ESV, John 1:29)
John 1:1-14 is a biography of Jesus that begins in Genesis. It tells us he already existed at the time of creation, so he is God. But more specifically, he is the second person of the trinity, God the Son and agent of creation. He lived among us as God in human form, and yet, many people failed to recognize him. But those who did and received him became adopted children of God.
Wow! A lot of divine revelation in a few verses. And now, John the Baptist publicly identifies him and announces his mission. To save the world from sin.
The role of sacrificial lambs
The Mosaic law involved a complex system of sacrifice that included sacrificial lambs. Especially used for the atonement of sin.
For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life. (ESV, Leviticus 17:11)
Sacrificial lambs were considered innocent and had to be unblemished for moral purity. They were a temporary, not a permanent fix. And regularly offered because they covered sin rather than eliminate it. The Greek word for “takes away” is airō, which means takes away, to bear, and remove. In other words, Jesus’ sacrifice is a permanent solution. It removes the sin of the “world.” And the Greek word Kosmos means all of humanity–past, present, and future.
A Study of John 1:29-42 presents how Jesus is the recognized Messiah
And John bore witness, saying, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him. I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.” (ESV, John 1:32-34)
John the Baptist’s role was not to just pave the way for Jesus, but to publicly identify him. However, John must firm confirm Jesus is the one he is expecting.
Throughout scripture God uses signs to authenticate, confirm, and reveal his redemptive plan. The miracles Jesus performed were signs of his divinity. And God gave John the Baptist a sign for recognizing the Messiah–he would see the Holy Spirit descend on him like a dove.
Matthew 3:13-17 and Luke 3:21-22 both record Jesus presenting himself to John the Baptist for baptism. And as Jesus exits the water, the heavens open and the Holy Spirit descends on him like a dove. Furthermore, a voice declares, “This is my beloved Son with whom I am well pleased.” The event confirms the prophecies in Isaiah 11:2, 42:1 and 61:1. And now, John the Baptist bears witness that Jesus fulfills all the expectations and is the Son of God.
A Study of John 1:29-42 presents John the Baptist’s descending and Jesus’ ascending ministry
Again, the next day, John stood with two of his disciples. And looking at Jesus as He walked, he said, “Behold the Lamb of God! (ESV, John 1:35-36)
John the Baptist enthusiastically pointed to Jesus over himself. And humbly claimed he was unworthy to even untie Jesus’ sandals. In modern terms, John the Baptist was the warm up act and Jesus the main event. John’s spotlight on Jesus included encouraging his own disciples to follow Jesus instead of him. And in this passage two make that switch. One who is identified as Andrew.
The two disciples seem tentative as they follow Jesus. So Jesus stops and asked them a question. “What are you seeking?” The Greek word for “seeking” is zēteite and means to seek, desire, strive for, aim at, and endeavor to obtain. It’s more than a casual, “What’s up, Dude?” And even, “What’s your five year plan?” But probes into their hearts. What deeper meanings in life are you searching for? When it comes to Jesus, it’s a good question for us all to reflect on. Because Jesus is the answer.
Perhaps they were caught off guard because their response was superficial. “Where are you staying? Jesus simply responds, “Come and see” which they do. And while we don’t know what their time together involved, Andrew clearly found the answers he sought. Because the next day he takes his brother, Simon, to meet Jesus. And rather than a question, Jesus makes a statement. He will call Simon by a new name. Peter. The rock.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
A study of John 1:15-28 confirms the preeminence of Christ who brings grace and truth, reveals the Father, and introduces John the Baptist who paves the way for Jesus.
A study of John 1:15-28 confirms the preeminence of Christ
“He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.”
John the Baptist was recognized as a prophet with an established ministry when he spoke these words. Crowds from Jerusalem and all Judea gathered to hear him preach. And many responded by confessing their sins followed by a baptism of repentance in the Jordan river. Furthermore, priests and levites from Jerusalem came to investigate him, which adds further credibility to his ministry.
So why does John the Baptist suddenly proclaim the coming of another ministry leader? And the wording of the announcement is, well, rather odd.
To say, “My ministry was here first, but his ministry is greater because he was before me.” Wait, what? Is this ministerial theatrics? A clever word play? Or babble to confuse us? Let’s take a closer look.
The Greek word for “ranks before me” is emprosthen, which means ahead in rank or status. In other words, Jesus’ ministry is more spiritually important. Why? Because Jesus was “before” him. The Greek term for “before” is protos, which means foremost in time, place, order or importance. In other words, Jesus existed at the time of creation because he is God. Therefore, he is preeminent.
A study of John 1:15-28 confirms that grace and truth comes through Jesus Christ
For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. (ESV, John 1:16-17)
The Greek word for “fullness” is pleroma, which means that which is complete, full, or the sum total. It refers to the complete sufficiency of Jesus and the abundance of grace he offers to those who believe. Jesus came because the Law of Moses was never meant to be God’s method of salvation for mankind. But to reveal God’s holiness, identify righteousness, and point to our sin.
For since the law has but a shadow of the good things to come instead of the true form of these realities… (ESV, Hebrews 10:1)
Yes. We should strive to follow the law in the pursuit of righteousness. But it won’t make us completely righteous because we will continue to sin. Jesus, however, is God’s complete solution. The redeemer who offers us grace and the complete forgiveness of our sin.
REFLECTION
Read Colossians 1:18. The term “preeminent” refers to first in rank, authority, or importance. Why is this is an important Biblical doctrine? Describe how it applies to Christ.
How does the idea that Jesus was “before” John the Baptist provide further support?
How do the two concepts–grace of Jesus and law of Moses–each contribute to your understanding of the gospel and guide your walk of faith?
A study of John 1:15-28 confirms that Jesus reveals the Father
No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father’s side, he has made him known.”
“The only God” is the Greek word mŏnŏgĕnēs, which means only born, only begotten child. Isaiah 7:14 foretells this and both Matthew and Luke record the virgin birth of Jesus who was conceived by the Holy Spirit. And here, John affirms it too. Furthermore, many scripture passages in both the Old and New Testament acknowledge that Jesus sits at the right hand of the father.
The point is, Jesus is not a warm and fuzzy abstract concept. A friendly apparition that floats through the air. But the physical revelation of God. Fully God and fully man. The incarnate Son. He is the embodiment of God’s truth and the fulfillment of all God’s promises.
So you can’t just ignore him. His physical reality demands serious consideration.
A study of John 1:15-28 introduces John the Baptist who paves the way for Jesus.
The Jews longed for liberation from Roman rule during this period. And a common, misinterpretation of Old Testament prophecies led to the expectation of a Messiah who was a political or military leader. This heightened sense of longing among the Jewish people fostered an environment that produced many claiming to be prophets and the Messiah. Even Jesus warned his followers to beware of those making false claims.
For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect. (ESV, Matthew 24:24)
Therefore, it is no suprise the religious leaders in Jerusalem sent priests and levites to verify the legitimacy of John the Baptist. Old Testament prophecies included three expected figures:
Messiah: Daniel 7:13-14 and Psalm 2
Elijah the prophet: Malachi 4:5-6
A prophet like Moses: Deuteronomy 18:15
John the Baptist replied “no” when the team sent to investigate him asked about each one in turn. But he quoted from Isaiah when further pressed on his identity.
A voice cries: In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. (ESV, Isaiah 40:3)
John the Baptist purposely, publicly, and humbly directed attention away from himself and toward Jesus. And he fulfilled prophecy in doing so. We would do well to follow his example.
REFLECTION
Read Isaiah 7:13, Matthew 1:18 and Luke 1:26-35. How do they all confirm John’s claim?
As you consider the life Jesus demonstrated what are some things it reveals to you about the Father?
Do you think from a human perspective, it might have been hard for John the Baptist watch his own ministry fade as he directed attention toward Jesus? What are some ways you might follow John’s example?
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals the Word is preexistent and eternal, God’s agent for creation and salvation, and the physical revelation of God as man.
Background:
The Gospel of John was written by John the apostle near the end of his life around 80-95 AD. And identifies himself as the disciple “whom Jesus loved.” At this time in history, original Jewish leaders like Peter, James the brother of Jesus, and Paul had been martyred and there were more Gentiles in the Christian church than Jews. It is this mixed audience that John writes to.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals Jesus is the preexistent and eternal God.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. (ESV, John 1:1-2)
Who is Jesus Christ? This was the central question during Jesus’ earthly ministry, among the early churches, and we still ask it today. The Gospel of John provides a clear answer. And he does so by going back to the beginning.
The Greek word for “beginning” in John is arche, which means beginning, origin, and first cause. And the Hebrew word for “beginning” in Genesis is berēʾšît, which means beginning, first, or first fruits. Both point to the beginning of creation.
John strategically refers to Jesus as the “word” which is the Greek word logos. It had a unique meaning to both groups in his audience.
Word = Logos
To the Jews, “word” carries power. God spoke the world into existence. Jesus calmed a raging storm with commanding words. And God’s written word communicates his covenantal law and reveals his will. However, to the Greeks, logos meant reason. The Stoics said logos was the divine rational principle that brought order to chaos, pervaded all things, and structured the cosmos.
And now, John makes an audacious claim. The Word was present at the time of creation, which means he is eternal and preexistent. Furthermore, he was with God and was God. In other words, he is a different person, but has the same divine essence as God the Father. The second person of the trinity composed of God the Father, Son, and Spirit.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals Jesus is God’s agent for creation and the light of men
All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. (ESV, John 1:3)
The world did not evolve by chance. A random, uncaused spark out of nothingness that exploded into somethingness–a completely ordered universe of marvel and wonder. Rather, it was intentional. An Almighty design from divine imagination, yet precisely engineered and structured for mankind. And not just made by the Word, but held together by him too.
They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. (ESV, Ephesians 4:18)
But the Word is also a light for humanity. Because shortly after creation, the sin of Adam and Eve plunged the world into spiritual darkness. One that separates us from God and we can’t fix on our own. But the Word illuminates the way back to God.
REFLECTION:
How do you answer the question: Who is Jesus?
Describe the background story that forms your spiritual life today.
Do you relate more to the Jewish or Greek concept of logos? Explain your thoughts.
Describe your understanding of spiritual darkness. How is Jesus a light for you?
A study of John 1:1-14) reveals Jesus is God’s agent for salvation
But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. (ESV, John 1:12-13)
You’d think everyone would run to the light. But that is not the case and John readily admits it. Many people reject Jesus for different reasons. However, those who turn from spiritual darkness to the light and receive Jesus as Savior and Lord are spiritually reborn as children of God.
The Greek word for “Receive” is Lambano which means to receive a person, give access to one’s self, and take possession of.
In other words, receiving the light involves more than passive acceptance. Like simply accepting a gift. It expects a response. Not just a simple, do you receive this gift? But are you opening yourself up to what you are receiving? Will you fully embrace it? Make a whole hearted commitment to it? In other words, if you receive Jesus are you all in?
The Greek word for “believe” is pisteuō and means to trust, rely on, and cling to. It indicates that belief in Jesus is more than intellectual assent. Like believing in the existence of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. A superficial belief that requres nothing from you. Belief in Jesus involves a personal commitment. A willingness to follow Jesus as a disciple. To put your eternal life in his hands and trust him for the salvation that only he offers.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals that Jesus is the physical revelation of God as man.
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son. (ESV, John 1:14)
Jesus didn’t simply put on a human form, like a set of clothes. He was fully human and fully God. And he experienced human life in every way that we do. The uncertainties, fears, hardships, pain, emotions, and temptations. Therefore, he understands our struggles. And he guides and supports us as we strive to follow him.
In Jesus, we see the Father. Through him, we are relationally restored with God. And by following him, we glorify God as we walk by faith in his righteousness.
REFLECTION:
Does the idea that “receiving” Jesus is more than passive acceptance change your ideas about the salvation process? Describe what you think belief in Jesus involves.
What is significant about the fact that Jesus is the agent of both creation and the spiritual recreation of mankind?
John makes it clear that Jesus is God in a completely human form. Why is this an important truth?
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
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