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 3
Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.
Currently viewing commentary for John 3
Jesus in the Neighborhood of the Baptist--His Noble Testimony to His Master.
The conversation took place in the rural parts of Judea, outside the capital city (22-24). John's baptism was a symbolical act that signified spiritual cleansing, and Jesus was the only one who baptized Jews, apart from John (25-26).
John's disciples were concerned that people were leaving him to follow Jesus. They questioned John about this, saying, "Master, this man is drawing everyone away from you" (26). John replied with a noble and affecting statement.
"I am doing my heavenly work," he said. "Would I try to take my Master's place? Did I not tell you that I am not the Christ?" John explained that his role was to point people to the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (27-30). He rejoiced in being the friend of the Bridegroom and bringing people together with their Savior.
A person can receive nothing unless it is given from above. Even Jesus came under this law when He became a human being (31-34). The reason John's ministry was decreasing while Jesus' was increasing was that Jesus came from above, descending from His heavenly realm to reveal the truth of God. In contrast, John and other human teachers were limited by their earthly nature.
John's disciples had said, "All people are coming to Him" (26), but John corrected them, saying that they were actually few in number. He was pained by this realization (32). Jesus' words gave glory to God, not just because of the Spirit's partial communication to prophets and apostles, but because God gives the Spirit without measure to His Son (33-34).
The Father loves the Son and has given Him authority over all things (35-36). The Son already possesses eternal life, while those who do not believe in Him will never see it. This is a striking contrast between those who have eternal life and those who do not.
Note: The commentary above preserves the original theological meaning and insights of JFB Commentary, using clear and contemporary English, while maintaining a respectful and reverent tone suitable for pastors and church use.