The Groomsman's Joy

The Context (vv. 22-26)

Historical Context (vv. 22-24) Jesus after Jerusalem (v. 22), at Aenon (v. 23), and before his Galilean Ministry (v. 24).

A Dispute Over Baptism (v. 25)

1. Jewish understanding of washing: Washing was tied to ritual cleanliness. (Exodus 30:17- 21; Leviticus 15:11).

2. John’s understanding of baptism: Baptism is tied to repentance. (Mark 1:5; Luke 3:2-3). Two Responses to the Glory of Jesus (vv. 26-30) The Earthly Response (v. 26) The Heavenly Response (vv. 27-30) 1. Humility in light of God's Sovereign Grace (v. 27) 2. Resolve to faithfully man your station. (v. 28)

3. Joy that Christ is glorified (v. 29)

The Replacement of the Old with the New (v. 30)

• He turned the waters of Jewish purification into wine which we use to celebrate our New Covenant in communion. (John 2:1-12)

• He replaced the old temple and its system with his once-for-all sacrifice of his body, the true temple. (John 2:13-22)

• All these things were but shadows pointing to Christ, like the serpent that was lifted up by Moses in the wilderness. (John 3:14-21)

• John, the last prophet of the old, who came preaching and baptizing, is stepping aside as the ultimate and final Prophet, Jesus, begins to preach and baptize.

The Testimony of the Son (vv. 31-35) The Son's Mission (v. 31) The Son's Testimony (vv. 32-34)

1. His testimony is first-hand. (v. 32)

2. His testimony comes from the highest authority. (v. 33)

3. His testimony is Spirit-anointed. (vv. 34-35)

Will You Accept the Testimony of the Son? (v. 36)

1. The Father has given the Son His Spirit. (v. 35)

2. The Father has given the Son a bride. (John 6:37-39)

3. The Father has given the Son the authority to judge. (John 5:22)