In verse 19 of the first chapter, John begins to tell the story of Jesus. He begins with the testimony of John the Baptist. What's striking is that the gospel writer does not tell us anything about the ministry of John the Baptist, but only his witness. Everything points to Jesus. The assumption is made that you already know the story of John the Baptist. The religious authorities come and challenge John. After all, John is a priest like his father. In fact, that is how you became a priest. Priesthood was hereditary. The authorities had some concerns about John. He represented all priests. There was talk in the community about whether he was the Messiah. John's declaration that he was neither the Messiah, Elijah, or the prophet addresses their concern, but also addresses the questions being raised at the time the gospel was being written. There were many who continued to follow John after the arrival of Jesus. There were those who followed John even after the resurrection. The gospel writer wanted to put to rest any and all questions surrounding John's being the promised one. The gospel writer has John himself declare that he is not the Messiah.
Of course, the other concern of the religious authorities was John baptizing people. Yes, people were baptized in those days, but they were baptized in order to become Jews. Jews were not baptized because they were already the people of God. John's baptism was different. He was saying that his own people needed to be baptized because of their sin. They needed to be washed clean. They needed to repent. The truth is that we resist the call to repentance, particularly when we think there is nothing wrong. However, John's message must have resonated with people, even it that message was difficult to hear. We have all experienced that uncomfortable word of truth in our lives. Someone challenges us about our actions or choices. Our first reaction is to defend ourselves, dismiss the individual making the challenge, and even grow angry with them. However, as those challenging words settle with us, we may come to realize the truth they hold and open ourselves to change. We may come to not only accept the challenge but come to be grateful to the one who spoke the truth in the beginning. John spoke the truth. People needed to repent and, if they were honest, they would own that truth. Jesus would continue that theme. He would call people to repentance. Their lives were broken and Jesus came to lead them to a better way, a better life. He spoke the truth in order to safe. That is the movement of the God's grace.
Once again, we have just begun our journey in John. Join us in the coming weeks either at the Book of Faith class on Wednesday at noon at the CEB or by following the blog. Make the Book of Faith a part of your road to discipleship.
Pastor Summer
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