The Weekly Show: Episode 33 - John 1:19-34

Walnut Grove

Join Tim and John as they give an informative episode about The Gospel of John Chapter 1 Verses 19-34.

Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning

Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/aspire

Bible Study: John 1:19–34

Theme: The Testimony of John the Baptist

This passage highlights John the Baptist’s role in preparing the way for Jesus, his declaration of Jesus as the Lamb of God, and his testimony about Jesus' divine mission.

I. John the Baptist’s Identity and Mission (Verses 19–23) Discussion Points: 1. John’s Humility

• John the Baptist had gained a large following, yet he did not seek personal glory.
• He confessed and did not deny (v. 20) that he was not the Messiah, nor was he Elijah or the Prophet.
• Instead of exalting himself, he made it clear that his role was to prepare the way for Christ (John 3:30—"He must increase, but I must decrease.").
• Reflection: In what ways can we practice humility in our lives, giving glory to Christ instead of ourselves?

2. Prophecy Fulfilled

• John quotes Isaiah 40:3, affirming that he is the fulfillment of the prophecy of a voice preparing the way for the Lord.
• His mission was to call people to repentance and readiness for the coming of Jesus (Matthew 3:2—"Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.").
• This echoes Malachi 3:1—"Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me."
• Reflection: How does understanding John’s role help us see the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises?

3. Application: Living as Voices for Christ

• John’s example teaches us to:
  • Point others to Jesus rather than seeking personal recognition.
  • Live with purpose by preparing the way for others to encounter Christ.
  • Remain faithful to God’s calling, even when questioned or misunderstood.
• Personal Challenge: How can we be a “voice in the wilderness” in our own communities, workplaces, and families, leading others to Jesus?

II. The Challenge of Authority (Verses 24–28)

Discussion Points: 1. Questioning John’s Authority

• The Pharisees were religious leaders who upheld Jewish law and tradition.
• They were skeptical of John’s authority to baptize, as baptism was typically reserved for converts to Judaism.
• Their question implied that, unless John held a prophetic or messianic role, he had no right to introduce a new spiritual practice.
• This echoes other instances where Jesus’ authority was challenged (Mark 11:28—"By what authority are you doing these things?").
• Reflection: Have we ever faced skepticism or opposition when following God's calling? How should we respond?

2. John’s Response: Pointing to Jesus

• John humbly deflects attention away from himself:
  • He acknowledges that his baptism is only with water, a symbol of repentance.
  • He emphasizes that the true power lies with the One coming after him—Jesus.
• "Among you stands one you do not know" (v. 26) suggests that Christ was already present, but unrecognized.
• He declares himself unworthy even to untie Jesus’ sandal, a task reserved for the lowest servants.
• Similar to Paul’s teaching in Philippians 2:3—"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves."
• Reflection: How can we adopt John’s attitude, ensuring our lives and ministries always point to Christ?

3. Application: Living for Christ, Not Ourselves

• Like John, we are called to direct people to Jesus, not ourselves.
• Ways to apply this in daily life:
  • Through our words – Speaking truth in humility and love (Colossians 3:17).
  • Through our actions – Serving others without seeking recognition (Matthew 6:1).
  • Through our worship – Making Christ the center of our devotion, not our own image (John 3:30).

Personal Challenge: How can we ensure that our ministry, work, and relationships reflect Jesus, rather than seeking personal glory?

III. The Lamb of God (Verses 29–31)

Discussion Points: 1. The Lamb of God: A Sacrificial Image

• John the Baptist identifies Jesus as “the Lamb of God.” This phrase is deeply rooted in Old Testament sacrificial imagery:
  • The Passover Lamb (Exodus 12:3–7) – The Israelites were saved from judgment by the blood of a lamb. Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of this, delivering us from the judgment of sin (1 Corinthians 5:7).
  • The Suffering Servant (Isaiah 53:7) – “He was led like a lamb to the slaughter.” Jesus willingly took on suffering and death for our salvation.
  • The Daily Sacrifices (Leviticus 4:32–35) – Lambs were regularly offered for sin. Jesus’ sacrifice is once and for all (Hebrews 10:10).
• Reflection: How does understanding Jesus as the Lamb of God deepen our appreciation for His sacrifice?

2. The Mission of Jesus: Taking Away Sin

• John declares Jesus’ purpose clearly: “who takes away the sin of the world.”
  • Jesus came to remove sin, not just cover it temporarily like Old Testament sacrifices (Hebrews 9:12).
  • This is a universal mission – "the world" signifies that salvation is available to all people, not just Israel (John 3:16).
  • Only Jesus can take away sin – No human effort, religious ritual, or good work can accomplish what Christ did on the cross (Acts 4:12).
• Reflection: What does it mean to truly trust Jesus as the one who takes away your sin?

3. John’s Role: Preparing the Way for Christ

• John acknowledges that his baptizing ministry had one primary purpose: “that he might be revealed to Israel.”
• Though John had known Jesus personally (as they were relatives), he came to recognize Jesus' divine identity through God's revelation (John 1:33).
• John’s humility – He points people to Christ, rather than himself, a lesson for all believers (John 3:30).
• Reflection: How can we, like John, make Jesus known to others in our daily lives?

Application:

• Personal Reflection: What does it mean to you that Jesus is the Lamb of God? How does this shape your faith and worship?
• Sharing the Gospel: Since Jesus takes away sin, how can we share this life-changing truth with those who don’t yet know Him?
• Living in Response: If Jesus gave everything for us, how should we respond in our daily lives (Romans 12:1-2)?

IV. The Holy Spirit and Jesus’ Baptism (Verses 32–34) Discussion Points: 1. Confirmation of Jesus’ Identity

• John the Baptist affirms that he “saw the Spirit descend from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him.”
  • A visible sign from God – The Holy Spirit’s descent confirmed Jesus as the promised Messiah (Isaiah 11:2).
  • A fulfillment of prophecy – Isaiah 42:1 foretells that God’s servant would be upheld by the Spirit.
  • A testimony to John – Though John knew of Jesus, this divine sign assured him of Jesus’ true identity.
  • The Spirit remained on Jesus – Unlike Old Testament prophets, who were temporarily filled with the Spirit, Jesus possesses the Spirit fully and permanently (Colossians 2:9).
• Reflection: How does this confirmation strengthen our faith in Jesus as the Son of God?

2. Baptism of the Holy Spirit

• John contrasts his baptism with water and Jesus’ baptism “with the Holy Spirit.”
  • John’s baptism symbolized repentance and preparation for the Messiah (Matthew 3:11).
  • Jesus’ baptism with the Holy Spirit brings transformation and empowerment (Acts 1:5, 8).
  • Fulfilled at Pentecost – The Holy Spirit was poured out on believers, marking the birth of the Church (Acts 2:1-4).
  • A new life in the Spirit – Jesus’ baptism of the Spirit regenerates and sanctifies believers (Titus 3:5-6, Romans 8:9-11).
• Reflection: What does it mean for us to be baptized with the Holy Spirit? How does His presence empower us for Christian living?

3. The Testimony of John: Jesus as the Son of God

• John declares, “I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.”
  • A direct testimony – John’s mission was to prepare the way for Jesus and publicly identify Him as the Messiah (John 3:28-30).
  • The Son of God – This title emphasizes Jesus’ divine nature and unity with the Father (John 10:30).
  • An invitation to believe – John’s witness calls us to recognize and accept Jesus as Lord and Savior.
• Reflection: How can we, like John, bear witness to Jesus in our daily lives?

Application:

• Personal Reflection: How does the presence of the Holy Spirit confirm Jesus' work in your life?
• Walking in the Spirit: In what ways do you rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance, strength, and transformation (Galatians 5:22-25)?
• Sharing the Good News: John boldly testified about Jesus. How can we do the same in our families, workplaces, and communities?

Key Themes and Takeaways

1. John’s Witness: John the Baptist consistently points people to Jesus, modeling humility and obedience.
2. Jesus, the Lamb of God: The sacrificial role of Jesus emphasizes God’s plan for redemption and forgiveness.
3. The Spirit’s Confirmation: The Holy Spirit affirms Jesus' identity and empowers believers for their mission.