Lesson 4481

 (Lesson 4481)(05-10-24) John 3:25-36 

“Then there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying. And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him. John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him. He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease. He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all. And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony. He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true. For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him. The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” 

Today’s quote recounts a dispute arising between some of John the Baptist's disciples and the Jews concerning purification. They didn’t understand the difference between the water baptisms that John performed for ritual purification, compared to the soul saving baptisms of the Spirit that Jesus performed. That lack of understanding caused John's disciples to express concern about Jesus baptizing nearby and attracting more followers. John clarified his inferior role, affirming that he is not the Messiah but was sent ahead of Him. He explains the joy of his mission being fulfilled as he hears the bridegroom’s (Jesus) voice, asserting "He must increase, but I must decrease." John further testified about Jesus, stating that He came from above and is above all. John emphasized that Jesus speaks God's soul saving words because God gave to Him the Spirit without limit. John declared that the Father loves the Son and has placed everything in His hands. He concluded with a stark message about faith and judgment: those who believe in the Son have eternal life, but those who reject the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on them.  

Sadly, today, there are many who believe their “purification” comes from water instead of the shed blood of Jesus Christ.~