Scripture to Read: John 3:25–28
We see in John 3:22 that the way the Scripture reads, it sounds like Jesus was baptizing. But in John 4:1–2, which we’ll examine more closely a little later, God makes it clear that Jesus was not baptizing, but His disciples were. As Jesus invested in His disciples, we read in John 3:25, “Therefore there arose a discussion on the part of John’s disciples with a Jew about purification.” So, John the Baptist’s disciples were questioned by another Jew about purification. The Scripture is not clear on what the exact discussion entailed. Some translations even call the discussion a “controversy” over purification (ceremonial washing/cleansing). John the Baptist had made it clear in John 1:26 that he was baptizing with water but that Christ had come to baptize with His Holy Spirit. In other words, the baptism in water was a ceremonial cleansing, but it could not wash away their sins. Baptism was, and still is today, an outward expression of what only God can do inwardly. At this point in Jesus’ ministry, no one fully comprehended what Christ had come to do. John the Baptist’s disciples even sound concerned (John 3:26) that Jesus is gaining more followers than John the Baptist. Sadly, there is still that sense of competition among churches today, such as who has baptized the most, who has the biggest congregation, who has the nicest facility, and the list goes on. We must stay focused on what God has commanded us to do. We must guard against jealousy and competition and serve our King wholeheartedly.
Challenge & Application
• What was the problem with John the Baptist’s disciples, and why were they concerned about what Jesus was doing?
• How do we stay guarded against jealousy and competition within the body of believers?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!