MPV Commentary

Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.

Currently viewing commentary for John 1

Sections for John 1
Joh 1:1-14 The Word Made Flesh.
Joh 1:15 A Saying of the Baptist Confirmatory of This.
Joh 1:16-18 Same Subject Continued.
Joh 1:19-36 The Baptist's Testimony to Christ.
Joh 1:37-51 First Gathering of Disciples--John Andrew, Simon, Philip,
Joh 1:15 A Saying of the Baptist Confirmatory of This.

A Saying of the Baptist Confirmatory of This.

The phrase "after me" (15) refers to official manifestation. In contrast, "before me" indicates rank and dignity. The Baptist's statement is also a reference to Jesus' existence before him: "His goings forth being from of old, from everlasting" (Mic 5:2). This means that the one who comes after John was actually his superior, having existed before him. The Baptist uses this enigmatic phrase to draw attention and emphasize the significance of Jesus' role as his successor.