A Study of John 1:15-28
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.
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