MPV Commentary

The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God—Here, "gospel" refers to the story our Evangelist is about to tell of Jesus' life, ministry, death, resurrection, and glorification, as well as the early gathering of believers in His name.

The abrupt introduction to this subject and the concise account of John's ministry, Jesus' baptism, and temptation have been noted as characteristic of this Gospel. This Gospel has a unique directness, practicality, and vividness that sets it apart from others. Notably, despite being the briefest of the Gospels, it provides detailed accounts in some of the most significant scenes of Jesus' life.

What may not be immediately apparent is that whenever the Evangelist highlights the finer aspects of humanity or the unique characteristics of Jesus' personality, these are often emphasized here, even if they are briefly mentioned by other Gospel writers. These subtle touches convey a quiet power and delicacy that can easily go unnoticed but leave lasting impressions on thoughtful readers.

These opening words of the Second Gospel demonstrate that our Evangelist recognized Jesus as the glory of the Only-begotten Son of the Father, just like the Fourth Evangelist.

2-3 As it is written in the prophets, "Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way" (Mal 3:1; Isa 40:3).

3 The voice crying out in the wilderness, "Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight." Matthew and Luke quote this passage in a similar context but reserve the first quotation until they return to John after his imprisonment (Mt 11:10; Lu 7:27).