An argument over ceremonial washing breaks out, driving John's disciples to seek his counsel. The conversation turns to Jesus, prompting John to again give his testimony. This seems to contrast the focus on ceremony with the focus on the truth that leads to eternal life. At the wedding in chapter 2, Jesus took the water that was used for ceremonial washing and turned it into something new. Here John teaches his followers that "the man who has accepted (Jesus' testimony) has certified that God is truthful" and "whoever believes in the Son has eternal life". The author John wastes no time in getting to the heart of the gospel, and he repeats it often for us!
I was convicted by verse 30: "He must become greater; I must become less". I must confess that I have a tendency sometimes to try to steal God's glory and make it my own. This is always pathetic, and I know better. Father God, make verse 30 true for me in my life and in my opportunities to minister for you.
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"Here John teaches his followers that "the man who has accepted (Jesus' testimony) has certified that God is truthful" and "whoever believes in the Son has eternal life". "
ReplyDeleteLove that phrasing "certified that God is truthful." NASB phrases it as "set his seal".... in other words the acceptor has in our modern day language "signed the documents". What a picture. (v34) then gives even more description of Christ's behavior.. "for He gives Spirit without measure". Sometimes I think the amount I've received is not enough for the task at hand.... but since He "gives without measure" this usually means I need to GO BACK and ask/seek more of God's Spirit.