THE DEVIL LET HIM ALONE
30 YEARS PLUS 40 DAYS

AND WHEN THE DEVIL HAD (FINISHED) ALL THE TEMPTATION (or testings),

THEN THE DEVIL (or Adversary) (LEFT) HIM (or let Him alone),







HE DEPARTED FROM HIM (or let Him alone) FOR A SEASON (or until an opportune time-NASB).














AND, BEHOLD, ANGELS CAME AND (ATTENDED) (TO) HIM (or took care of Him-JNT).


Commentary Bible continues on pg. 195




















































































AND (now) THIS IS THE RECORD (or witness) OF JOHN, WHEN THE JEWS SENT (to him) PRIESTS AND LEVITES FROM JERUSALEM TO ASK HIM, WHO (ARE) (YOU)?











AND HE (WAS VERY STRAIGHT FORWARD-JNT), AND DENIED NOT; BUT (STATED CLEARLY), I AM NOT THE CHRIST (or the Messiah).






AND THEY ASKED HIM, WHAT THEN? (ARE) (YOU) ELIJAH? AND HE (SAID), I AM NOT.  (ARE) (YOU) THAT PROPHET (the one we’re expecting-JNT)?  AND HE ANSWERED, NO.
















THEN (finally) SAID THEY (TO) HIM, WHO (ARE) (YOU)? (Give us an answer-NIV) (so) THAT WE MAY GIVE AN ANSWER TO THEM THAT SENT US.  WHAT (SAY) (YOU) OF (YOURSELF)?




HE SAID, I AM THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS (or desert), MAKE STRAIGHT THE WAY OF THE LORD, AS SAID THE PROPHET (ISAIAH). (Ref-Mt 3:3 (pt 3), Mk 1:3, Lk 3:4 (pt 5).

















AND THEY (or some of those) WHICH WERE SENT WERE OF THE PHARISEES.



AND THEY ASKED HIM, AND SAID (TO) HIM, WHY (BAPTIZE) (YOU) (or why are you immersing people-JNT) THEN, IF (YOU) (ARE) NOT THAT CHRIST (or Messiah), NOR ELIJAH, NEITHER THAT PROPHET?







JOHN ANSWERED THEM, SAYING, I BAPTIZE (or am immersing people) WITH (or in) WATER: BUT THERE (STANDS) ONE AMONG YOU, WHOM (YOU) KNOW NOT;

















HE IT IS, WHO COMING AFTER ME IS PREFERRED BEFORE ME, WHOSE SHOE'S (STRAP) (or sandals) I AM NOT WORTHY (or I’m not good enough even-JNT) TO (UNTIE).

























THESE THINGS WERE DONE IN (BETHANY) (EAST OF) JORDAN, WHERE JOHN WAS BAPTIZING (or immersing).








THE NEXT DAY JOHN (SAW) JESUS COMING (TOWARD) HIM, AND (SAID), (LOOK) THE LAMB OF GOD, WHICH (TAKES) AWAY THE SIN OF THE WORLD.
   Note.  Immediately after Jesus was baptized, he was led into the wilderness to fast and be tempted.  Sometime soon afterwards Jesus returned to John and stood among the people-Jn 1:26.  Then in verse 29 John identifies Jesus (the Lamb of God) coming toward him.  In verse 32 he testifies that he had seen (the past) the Spirit coming and abiding on Jesus. 
   Although these verses in John are very much like those that John spoke before the baptism of John, we see they were actually spoken soon after Jesus had fasted.

















































































































THIS IS HE (the One) OF WHOM (I was talking about when-JNT) I SAID, AFTER ME (COMES) A MAN WHICH IS PREFERRED BEFORE ME (or has a higher rank than I-NASB): FOR HE (EXISTED) BEFORE ME.









AND I (myself) (DID NOT RECOGNIZE HIM-NASB): BUT THAT HE SHOULD BE (REVEALED) TO ISRAEL, THEREFORE AM I COME BAPTIZING WITH WATER.










AND JOHN (BORE) RECORD, SAYING, I SAW THE SPIRIT DESCENDING FROM HEAVEN LIKE A DOVE, AND IT ABODE (or remained) UPON HIM.





AND I KNEW HIM NOT (or I) (did not recognize Him-NASB): BUT HE (the One) THAT SENT ME TO BAPTIZE (or immerse) (IN) WATER, THE SAME SAID (TO) ME, UPON WHOM (YOU) SHALT SEE THE SPIRIT DESCENDING, AND REMAINING ON HIM, THE SAME IS HE (or this is the One-NASB) WHICH (BAPTIZES) (or immerses) WITH THE HOLY GHOST (or Spirit).










AND I SAW, AND BARE RECORD (or I testify) THAT THIS IS THE SON OF GOD.












Commentary Bible continues on pg. 204








































































AGAIN THE NEXT DAY AFTER JOHN STOOD, (WITH) TWO OF HIS DISCIPLES; (Note: Andrew was one, and some believe John was the other.)


AND LOOKING (AT) JESUS AS HE WALKED (passing by), HE (SAID), (LOOK) THE LAMB OF GOD!












AND THE TWO DISCIPLES HEARD HIM SPEAK (this), AND THEY FOLLOWED JESUS.










THEN JESUS TURNED (around), AND SAW THEM FOLLOWING, AND (SAID) (TO) THEM, WHAT SEEK (YOU)?  THEY SAID (TO) HIM, RABBI, (WHICH IS TO SAY, BEING INTERPRETED, MASTER,) (or Teacher) WHERE (ARE YOU STAYING)?

TWO VALUES ON OUR LIFE

   Do we truly understand?  There two values on our life: one is how Satan values us, and the other is how God values us.  If we will turn from following Jesus, Satan will gladly give us certain things.  Satan promised to give Jesus ALL THE KINGDOMS OF THE WORLD, AND THE GLORY OF THEM-Mt 4:8,9.  What does your heart desire?  The woman desired to eat of the forbidden fruit.  She wanted her eyes to be opened.  She wanted to know certain things.  She wanted to be as a god.  She wanted to be wise.  She got what she wanted, but she also got death.  Satan told her she would receive all these things, but he lied to her about not dying.  Satan does the same with people today.  They sell their soul for what their heart desires, but receive eternal death.  The serpent may promise them peace in the world, or peace in their family, if they will just disobey God.  He tells them, they will not surely perish.  He may promise them money, or certain things their heart desires, such as a car, a house, a vacation, a girlfriend, a boyfriend, acceptance from others, or a better job.  What does your heart desire?  The serpent may give it to you—if you will just disobey God.  Be sure of this: the serpent will tell you, you will NOT SURELY DIE. 

   Esau sold his birthright for a bowl of pottage (lentil stew)-ref Gen 25:29-34; 27:33-36.  Afterward, he wanted it back and cried, but it did him no good.  Adam wanted to please his wife more than God, so he did what his wife suggested and disobeyed God.  What regret he must have had afterward, but it was too late.  Satan kindled within the woman a desire for something.  Satan knows how to kindle within you a desire for certain things.  Then, the serpent lied to the woman.  He told her, she would NOT SURELY DIE. 

   The threat of God’s eternal judgment was gone.  Her emotions were elevated to desire certain things that the serpent had put into her heart.  Satan knows the THINGS THAT BE OF MEN (or we may say the things that people’s hearts desire)-Mk 8:33.  He also knows how to elevate your emotions to want those desires so badly, that you might do anything to get them, including disobeying God.  Which voice will you follow?  Satan’s value on you is to give you certain worldly things in exchange for your soul.  Satan doesn’t love you.  He hates you.  The most he can promise you, for eternity, is eternal death.  The bottom line is, Satan really wants to destroy you. 

   God’s value on you is to give you eternal life.  God’s value on you is so great, He sent His only begotten Son to die a horrible death on the cross to pay for your sins. 

   Who do you want to follow?  Do you want to follow the serpent that may place a value on you of a few worldly things and then you perish, even though you may think you will not?  Or would you rather follow the One, Who loves you so much, He gave His life for you at Calvary so that you might have eternal life?  God values you tremendously.  Who do you value the most?  What do you value the most?  Do you value having many things, now, more than you value eternal life? 

GOD’S WILL BE DONE
THY WILL BE DONE

   Keep in mind, once we submit to Jesus, we no longer should say, “I will,” but rather, “God’s will be done.” 
   It is written: Ja 4:15-FOR THAT YE OUGHT TO SAY, IF THE LORD WILL, WE SHALL LIVE, AND DO THIS, OR THAT. 
   Paul said in 1 Cor 4:19-BUT I WILL COME TO YOU SHORTLY, IF THE LORD WILL.
   Mt 6:10-THY KINGDOM COME. THY WILL BE DONE IN EARTH, AS IT IS IN HEAVEN.
   Jesus said in Mt 26:42-HE…PRAYED, SAYING, O MY FATHER, IF THIS CUP MAY NOT PASS AWAY FROM ME, EXCEPT I DRINK IT, THY WILL BE DONE.
   Jesus also said in Lk 11:2-AND HE SAID UNTO THEM, WHEN YE PRAY, SAY,…THY KINGDOM COME. THY WILL BE DONE, AS IN HEAVEN, SO IN EARTH.

TEMPTATIONS: MORE ON THIS SUBJECT
THE ANTICHRIST.  THE TWO ROPES

   The day is coming and is close at hand, when the Antichrist will say, yes, to this offer of being given all the kingdoms of the world and the glory of them.  He will reign and rule for the last three and a half years of the Tribulation, but his end is to be cast alive into the lake of fire for eternity-ref Rev 19:20.
   We may note that through these temptations, Satan has appealed to the physical appetite, to personal gain, and to the desire for power and glory.  Regretfully, many people, in the time of temptation, fall away-ref Lk 8:13.  As one studies the various temptations and subtle tactics that Satan used against Eve and against Jesus, many similarities can be noted.
   God is pulling us in one direction: toward repentance, humble, childlike faith, and obedience to Him.  Satan is pulling us in another direction: toward disobedience to God. 
   When being tempted, it is not uncommon for someone to say, “I am confused.  I don't know what to do.”  GOD IS NOT THE AUTHOR OF CONFUSION-1 Cor 14:33.  Satan is. 
   Often we may feel as though we are between two ropes.  One is tied to our right hand and the other to our left hand.  Both ropes are pulling on us at the same time.  It may feel like we are being pulled or torn apart.  God is not willing that any should perish.  One way that Satan attacks God is through us.  We are the battlefield.  The fiery darts,-ref Eph 6:16, which sometimes seem like they are going to consume or overwhelm us, are thoughts, emotions, and our flesh.  They are “self.”  Sometimes our stomach becomes so tied up in knots, we could almost scream.  There are many people, who sell their soul to Satan for some worldly desire, lust or pleasure, or to get rid of up tightness or fear.  It may be for a piece of bread, clothing, fame, power, or other material things, that will all pass away.  Our thoughts need to be focused upon doing the will of God, not our own will.  It is written, SUBMIT YOURSELVES THEREFORE TO GOD.  RESIST THE DEVIL, AND HE WILL FLEE FROM YOU-Ja 4:7.  Our thoughts need to be kept upon Jesus, Who is our trust.  THOU WILT KEEP HIM IN PERFECT PEACE, WHOSE MIND IS STAYED ON THEE: BECAUSE HE TRUSTETH IN THEE-Isa 26:3.
   It is also written, AND HIM ONLY (SHALL) (YOU) SERVE.  If we are to follow Jesus, then it is written for each of us-we—are to serve only God.  We are to live by the Word and serve Him. 
   2 Tim 2:3-4-THOU THEREFORE ENDURE HARDNESS, AS A GOOD SOLDIER OF JESUS CHRIST.  Note, we are called a soldier of Jesus Christ.  We belong to Him.   We are bought for a price.  We are in a war.  It is written, NO MAN THAT WARRETH ENTANGLETH HIMSELF WITH THE AFFAIRS OF THIS LIFE; THAT HE MAY PLEASE HIM WHO HATH CHOSEN HIM TO BE A SOLDIER.  Again, this verse tells us for the second time we are a soldier of Christ.  We are not to get tangled up in the things of this world but rather we are to serve only God.  Lk 16:13-NO SERVANT CAN SERVE TWO MASTERS: FOR EITHER HE WILL HATE THE ONE, AND LOVE THE OTHER; OR ELSE HE WILL HOLD TO THE ONE, AND DESPISE THE OTHER.  YE (that is a born-again Christian) CANNOT SERVE GOD AND MAMMON (or money, or we may say-the world).  Note—this message is not easily received by the worldly Christian that wants heaven but also wants this world and the things that are herein, neither is it understood or taught much in today’s lukewarm churches.  The lukewarm perish-ref Rev 3:16.

SOME SCRIPTURES ON SERVING GOD

   Mt 4:10-subject serve God:
   Deut 6:13; Lk 1:74; Jn 6:27; Jn 12:26; Mal 3:18; Mt 25:14; Lk 16:13; Lk 19:11-27; Mt 21:28-31; Ro 6:22; Ro 7:4; Ro 12:11; Deut 28:47-48; 1 Cor 7:23; 1 Cor 15:58; 1 Cor 5:9; 2 Cor 5:15; Eph 2:10; Col 3:24; 1 Thes 1:9; 2 Tim 2:4; 2 Tim 2:20,21; Titus 2:14; Heb 4:10; Heb 9:14; Heb 12:28; Ja 1:25; Rev 2:26; Zeph 3:9; Ezek 5:1-6;

SUMMARY OF THE VERSES JESUS USED REGARDING THE THREE TEMPTATIONS

   MAN SHALL NOT LIVE (ON) BREAD ALONE, BUT BY EVERY WORD THAT (COMES) OUT (FROM) THE MOUTH OF GOD.
   IT IS SAID, AGAIN (or on the other hand-NASB, or it also says), (YOU) (SHALL) NOT TEMPT THE LORD (YOUR) GOD (or put the Lord your God to the test-NASB).
   AND THEN (SAID) JESUS (TO) HIM, GET THEE HENCE (or Begone, or Away from Me), SATAN: FOR IT IS WRITTEN, (YOU) (SHALL) WORSHIP THE LORD (YOUR) GOD, AND HIM ONLY (SHALL) (YOU) SERVE.

   We are to rightly divide God’s Word and use God’s Word to defeat Satan’s temptations.  We are to live by all of the Word of God.  We are not to tempt God, and we are to worship God and serve only Him.
   We are to trust God to provide us with food and drink (note temptation one)
   We are to trust God to protect us (note temptation two)
   We are to trust God to give us what is His will for us to have (note temptation three).  We are to have faith in God.  We are to trust Him for all things and be thankful. 

TEMPTATIONS.  NINE STEPS SATAN SOMETIMES USES TO CAUSE A PERSON TO FALL

   1.  Satan will try to find some way to darken a person’s correct, Biblical understanding of God’s Word.  Darkness needs to begin to blind them-ref 2 Jn 2:11; Jn 12:35; Mt 6:23; Jn 3:19.
   2.  Satan may try to put into a falling person’s thoughts that their born-again preacher and elders have no authority over them.  Satan may try to discredit their preacher in some way.  People that have fallen for this lie of Satan will often say to their preacher, “You just don’t understand.”  They sometimes develop an accusing attitude.
   3.  Satan may try to quench the falling person’s love for their preacher and oftentimes the born-again brethren also.  For it is written-FAITH WHICH WORKETH BY LOVE-Gal 5:6.
   4.  Satan may try to cause the falling person to become dissatisfied or unhappy with something or someone in their church, their situation, or some circumstances.
   5.  Satan may begin to cause the falling person to believe the grass is greener on the other side of the fence.  In other words, Satan may put in the mind of the falling person that if they leave their present situation things will be much better for them.  Satan then may open up some opportunity for the person to leave their current situation and go to something different.

   Lk 4:13 (pt 1).            AND WHEN THE DEVIL HAD (FINISHED)
   ALL THE TEMPTATION (or testings),

   Lk 4:13 (pt 2).             HE (the devil) DEPARTED FROM HIM (or let Him alone)

   Jesus said, Mt 8:20-THE FOXES HAVE HOLES, AND THE BIRDS OF THE AIR HAVE NESTS; BUT THE SON OF MAN HATH NOT WHERE TO LAY HIS HEAD-Mt 8:20.  Many that follow Jesus may find this also applies to them.

   Born again Christians will be tested over and over to see if their faith is genuine, especially in their weakest areas-ref 1 Pe 1:7; Deut 8:2; 8:16.  The verses continue—

   Mt 4:11 (pt 2).    AND, BEHOLD, ANGELS CAME AND (ATTENDED) (TO) HIM (or took care of Him-JNT).
    Jesus would have been very weak at the end of a 40 day fast.  The very same verse that Satan tried to misuse and tempt Jesus with, ref Mt 4:6 and Lk 4:10,11 (from Psalms 91:11,12), now comes to pass as the angels help Jesus upon the completion of the 40 day fast.  The angels were always present, but would not interfere as Satan tempted Jesus the 3 times. 

FASTING

   Jesus had just completed His 40 day fast. Nothing would have been eaten at all, only water would have been taken. At the end of His fast, the devil tempted Him 3 times but failed. Then the devil departed from Him. Once a person has finished a 40 day fast, they are extremely weak.  A person would feel extremely tired, yet even when they would sleep (which can be difficult sometimes), they do not wake up refreshed.  It is possible to walk, but not easily and not for a very long distance. Yet even though a person would be hungry, the desire for food itself has all but ceased.  Sexual desires and nearly all desires of the flesh have diminished greatly.  During a fast of several days or more, because fleshly desires have greatly diminished, the Bible often becomes more alive to a person than ever before.  A person can often hear from God more clearly. When a fast is done according to the way God outlines in His Word, He rewards the person spiritually.
   Immediately after a fast of several days up to 40 days, a person cannot eat very much, and if they should try to do so, severe stomach pains may occur.  The first time to eat, something like a small amount of soup is recommended.  Afterward a person usually will want to lay down again for more sleep.  After perhaps 3 hours a person can eat again, but still only a small amount.  After a day or so, a person can begin eating normally, yet they usually find they are eating much less than normal for a while. Strength begins to return quickly. After only a couple of days the person can sometimes feel almost normal, yet to regain their full strength may take as much as one third the length of the fast. Example, if a person fasted for 10 days, it may take 3 to 4 days return to full strength. It is not uncommon for a person’s feet to swell after a fast is over and they have been eating.  A person may lose 1 to 2 pounds a day during a fast.  The weight a person has lost can return at the rate of about 4 plus pounds a day depending how much and what kinds of food they eat and how much they drink.
   Mt 4:2 (pt 2,3) and Luke 4:2 (pt 4,5) had told us-AND WHEN THEY (HAD) ENDED, HE AFTERWARD BECAME HUNGRY. At this time the angels came and attended to Him. He would have needed help.
   God’s Word clearly tells us that His people shall fast. If a person claims to be a born-again Christian, but has never fasted, something may not be right.
   Of the 4 Gospels, three of them tell us clearly that Born-again Christians will fast. Mt 9:15-AND JESUS SAID UNTO THEM, CAN THE CHILDREN OF THE BRIDECHAMBER MOURN, AS LONG AS THE BRIDEGROOM IS WITH THEM? BUT THE DAYS WILL COME, WHEN THE BRIDEGROOM SHALL BE TAKEN FROM THEM, AND THEN SHALL THEY FAST.
   Mk 2:20-BUT THE DAYS WILL COME, WHEN THE BRIDEGROOM SHALL BE TAKEN AWAY FROM THEM, AND THEN SHALL THEY FAST IN THOSE DAYS.
   Lk 5:35-BUT THE DAYS WILL COME, WHEN THE BRIDEGROOM SHALL BE TAKEN AWAY FROM THEM, AND THEN SHALL THEY FAST IN THOSE DAYS.
   Acts 13:1-3-THE CHURCH THAT WAS AT ANTIOCH. …THEY MINISTERED TO THE LORD, AND FASTED, AND WHEN THEY HAD FASTED AND PRAYED…
   Does your church or the people in your church fast?  Does the minister talk and teach on this subject?  If they do not, that is interesting as it is indicated in the Scriptures that God’s people shall indeed fast.
   Adam did not fast before being attacked by the serpent.  He was tempted by Satan working through Eve, probably a very beautiful and enticing woman.  He obeyed his wife rather than God.  He fell.
   Jesus did fast before being attacked after His baptism and did not fall. Fasting diminishes much of the desires of the flesh. It helps a person over come self and those big fiery uptight knots and darts in ones stomach. Jesus did not fall

DISCLAIMER.

   We recommend each person seek God, and their “born-again” minister with regards to doing a fast.  If there are any medical problems, also consider seeing a born-again doctor.  The information presented herein is only relating to what some born again people might expect, and is in no way to be used in any other way.

STUDY THE BIBLE

   True born-again Christians have a thirst for God’s Word.  It is written, 1 Pe 2:2-3-AS NEWBORN BABES, DESIRE THE SINCERE MILK OF THE WORD, THAT YE MAY GROW THEREBY: IF SO BE YE HAVE TASTED THAT THE LORD IS GRACIOUS.
   Even though Jesus is The Word, it is believed that He studied and meditated in the Word much of the time even as born-again Christians are called to do.  It is written, Ps 119:97-O HOW LOVE I THY LAW! IT IS MY MEDITATION ALL THE DAY.  It is further written, 2 Tim 2:15-STUDY TO SHEW THYSELF APPROVED UNTO GOD, A WORKMAN THAT NEEDETH NOT TO BE ASHAMED, RIGHTLY DIVIDING THE WORD OF TRUTH.
   There are many that claim to be a Christian, but they seldom read and study God’s Word.  Even many preachers, priests, and rabbi have never read the Bible through even one time.  Those that have a Bible and can study it, but do not, one comment can be made.  MANY ARE CALLED, BUT FEW ARE CHOSEN-Mt 22:14.  Many believe Satan’s lies as he may speak, “You cannot understand the Bible.  Why waist you time reading it?”  To those whose heart is right toward God, as one studies and obeys what he understands, his understanding will increase and increase.  As one is faithful, God opens their understanding-ref Lk 24:45; Jn 14:26.  The more one studies and obeys, the more one learns.  The more a person learns and understands the Word of God, the more a person realizes how little they really know, but they grow in faith and obedience.  It is written, Mt 11:29-LEARN OF ME; FOR I AM MEEK AND LOWLY IN HEART: AND YE SHALL FIND REST UNTO YOUR SOULS.

JESUS: SOME THINGS HE WENT THROUGH

   Note:  The time that Jesus was in human form as an infant, child, and man upon this earth (approximately 33 ½ year) was Satan’s best chance to stop Him.  It was his best opportunity end God’s plan for redemption.  It was his best chance to try and nullify the many prophecies about the Son.  Satan had no chance of stopping Jesus after His death on the cross.
   Satan tried to kill Jesus soon after He was born.  Undoubtedly he tempted Jesus as a boy but we are told nothing of this.  He tempted Jesus during His fast, after His fast, and during His ministry, and even when Jesus was hanging on the cross.  Satan used kings, rulers, soldiers, religious leaders, people from many parts of Israel, people from Nazareth, and even His own brothers.  Some tempted Him.  Some tried to trick Him.  Some tried to kill him by throwing him down a cliff or stoning Him.  Some tried to arrest Him.  People tried to trap Him in what He said.  Religious leaders openly tried to do everything possible to discredit and stop Him.  Some even said that He cast out devils by Beelzebub the prince of the devils.  Others said that he had a devil.  The Scriptures even indicate that they called Him a drunkard (or winebibber).  The list could go on and on.  Satan did everything possible to kill Him, to discredit Him, to scare Him, to ridicule Him, to stop Him.  Nothing worked.  Finally Satan was responsible for His crucifixion, not realizing this was in God’s plan, and not realizing that in doing so it would be to his own defeat-ref 1 Cor 2:8.  Then Satan even tried to stop the resurrection by sealing the tomb and placing guards there.  When all failed, Satan, through the religious leaders, tried to discredit the resurrection by having the guards lie.  Those that follow Jesus can expect to go through many similar difficulties.
   Mt 28:18-AND JESUS CAME AND SPAKE UNTO THEM, SAYING, ALL POWER IS GIVEN UNTO ME IN HEAVEN AND IN EARTH. 
   Jesus went to be with His father in heaven.  The angels said in Acts 1:11-YE MEN OF GALILEE, WHY STAND YE GAZING UP INTO HEAVEN? THIS SAME JESUS, WHICH IS TAKEN UP FROM YOU INTO HEAVEN, SHALL SO COME IN LIKE MANNER AS YE HAVE SEEN HIM GO INTO HEAVEN.  Are you ready for the judgment?  Are you ready for His return?  The verses continue—

   Jn 1:19.                      AND (now) THIS IS THE RECORD (or witness).  This record concludes in verse 34 which
says: AND I SAW, AND BARE RECORD (or I testify) THAT THIS IS THE SON OF GOD.  This is the record—
   OF JOHN.  This is talking about John the Baptist.  The verse continues—
   WHEN THE JEWS SENT (to him)
   PRIESTS AND LEVITES.  The Jews that would have had the authority to send the priests and Levites would have probably been the great Sanhedrin.  The priests and Levites were sent to John—
   FROM JERUSALEM.  The people undoubtedly sent these particular Priests and Levites as they should be able to discern from the Biblical scrolls who John really was.  The ministry that John had received from God was gaining such notoriety, that it could not be ignored by the people and those in authority.  The priests and Levites were sent—
   TO ASK HIM,
   WHO (ARE) (YOU)?  Jn 1:38 and other verses makes it clear that the time this happened was following the time Jesus fasted.  The people were expecting the Messiah during this time-ref Lk 3:15.  They wondered if John was the Messiah.  If he was not, they wondered who he was.  Thus a group of priests and Levites, who were versed in the Scriptures, were sent to investigate John.  John himself was from the seed of Aaron, and thus was from a line of priests.  The verses continue—

   Jn 1:20.                        AND HE (WAS VERY STRAIGHT FORWARD),
   AND DENIED NOT;
   BUT (STATED CLEARLY),
   I AM NOT THE CHRIST (or the Messiah).  John never claimed he was the Messiah.  He made it clear that he was not. His answer was short and to the point.  He did not give additional information to their question.  Note—pride, or wanting to be “someone special” or wanting the praise of men often prompts some people to make themselves out to be something that they are not.  Man’s sinful nature wants to elevate itself.  However, as a follower of Christ, man has to resist such temptations.  He has to greatly humble himself.  A person that does not deny himself, does, in a manner of speaking deny Christ.  The verses continue—

   Jn 1:21.                       AND THEY ASKED HIM,
   WHAT THEN?
   (ARE) (YOU) ELIJAH?  The reason they asked Him this is that it is written: Mal 4:5-BEHOLD, I WILL SEND YOU ELIJAH THE PROPHET BEFORE THE COMING OF THE GREAT AND DREADFUL DAY OF THE LORD.  Note, the great and dreadful day of the lord is Armageddon but they did not understand this.  The day of the Lord is referred to approximately 6 times in the Bible.  The people, priests and the Levites from Jerusalem were expecting the Messiah to appear and set up His earthly kingdom-ref Lk 3:13 and Jn 1:20 because of Daniel’s prophecy of the 70 weeks-ref Dan 9:24-27.  But before the Messiah should appear, they reasoned that Elijah the prophet should appear.  Also John was in an area not far from where Elijah was taken up into heaven-ref 2 Ki 2:11.  Regarding the question to John if he were Elijah—
    AND HE (that is John the Baptist)
  (SAID), I AM NOT.  Again John answers the question with very few words and to the point giving no additional information.  John clearly stated he was not Elijah.  However, He did came in the spirit of Elijah-ref Mt 11:14, 17:10-13.  One might ask, how can this be?  The answer is that a double portion of Elijah’s Spirit had been given-ref 2 Ki 2:9-15.  The verse continues—
   (ARE) (YOU) THAT PROPHET (the one we’re expecting-JNT)?  This refers to Deut 18:15-THE LORD THY GOD WILL RAISE UP UNTO THEE A PROPHET FROM THE MIDST OF THEE, OF THY BRETHREN, LIKE UNTO ME; UNTO HIM YE SHALL HEARKEN.  Deut 18:15 is actually a prophecy of the coming of the Messiah.  Some may have also wondered if John was some other prophet.  The verse continues—
   AND HE ANSWERED, NO.  John answered their question in one word and gave no additional information.  The verses continue—

   Jn 1:22.                     THEN (finally) SAID THEY (TO) HIM,
   WHO (ARE) (YOU)? (Give us an answer-NIV) (so).  It appears they were not satisfied with the answers they were receiving.  Neither could they find something to accuse John of.  The proceeded to say, WHO ARE YOU—
   THAT WE MAY GIVE AN ANSWER TO THEM THAT SENT US.  The Levites and Priests from Jerusalem had been sent by others (the Jews) to ask John Baptist these questions.  Exactly what Jews sent them are not identified.  It is presumed that it was the chief priests and scribes of Jerusalem.  Thus they were invoking the authority of those that sent them to prompt John to give them an answer.  They said to John—
   WHAT (SAY) (YOU) OF (YOURSELF)?  John answers their question by quoting from the prophet Isaiah—

   Jn 1:23.                      HE SAID,
   I AM THE VOICE
   OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS (or desert),
   MAKE STRAIGHT THE WAY OF THE LORD.
   AS SAID THE PROPHET (ISAIAH).  John quoted from the prophet Isaiah, the first part of what is now Isa 40:3.  THE VOICE OF HIM THAT CRIETH IN THE WILDERNESS, PREPARE YE THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE STRAIGHT IN THE DESERT A HIGHWAY FOR OUR GOD.  John compared himself to a voice.  That voice was one crying.  It did not say the voice was shouting or yelling.  The crying was in the wilderness—a place away from the busyness of the cities and towns.  John’s focus was the Messiah is coming to a sinful generation that wasn’t ready and that needed to repent.  In quoting these words, John had shown that it was God’s authority that sent him and his office while the authority that sent them was of man, yet they did not appear to understand.  John was the fulfillment of Isa 40:3.
    John had spoken these words previously to others, note Mt 3:3. 
   It is a reminder of the sinful, lukewarm generation we currently live in that needs to anoint their eyes with eyesalve that they might be able to see, for indeed today’s church is wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked-ref Rev 3:17.  They are not clothed with the garments of righteousness-ref Rev 3:18.  They are sleeping-ref Mt 25:5.  Jesus will come soon for His church but only a very few are awake, watching, and ready.  Sadly many clergy will also be left behind undoubtedly crying out saying, Mt 25:11,12-LORD, LORD, OPEN TO US.  BUT HE (Jesus) ANSWERED AND SAID, VERILY I SAY UNTO YOU, I KNOW YOU NOT.
   These priests and Levites should have known from the Scriptures who John was, yet they did not.  The Scripture that John quoted had given them a good answer but because they were in spiritual darkness, it seems to have had no effect on them. 
   The verses continue—

   Jn 1:24.                   AND THEY (or some of those)
   WHICH WERE SENT WERE OF THE PHARISEES.  The subject of the Pharisees is covered under Mt 3:7 and Jn 3:1.  The verses continue—

   Seemingly not having an answer that they could understand, they now change the subject. 
   Jn 1:25.                    AND THEY ASKED HIM, AND SAID (TO) HIM,
   WHY (BAPTIZE) (YOU) (or why are you immersing people-JNT) THEN,
   IF (YOU) (ARE) NOT THAT CHRIST (or Messiah),
   NOR ELIJAH,
   NEITHER THAT PROPHET?  Three people are mentioned in their question—1-the Christ, 2-Elijah, 3-that prophet which was really the Christ but they didn’t understand that.  Since they did not understand who John Baptist was, even from the Scriptures, they wondered by what reason or authority was he doing this.  They were actually challenging John’s authority in front of the people that came repenting and seeking to be baptized.  After all, he seemed to have no official Biblical title that their blind hearts could identify.  John was not under the authority of the religious establishment of Jerusalem, but under the authority of God.  Jesus was asked a similar question in Mt 21:23 about 2 days before He was crucified.  The verses continue—

   Jn 1:26.                     JOHN ANSWERED THEM, SAYING, I BAPTIZE (or am immersing people)
   WITH (or in) WATER.  Clearly Col 2:12 and Ro 6:4 (which follows) shows that sprinkling baptism is not correct to those that have eyes to see, ears to hear, and do not possess a hard heart toward the truth.  Those clergy and denominations that do sprinkling baptism are very misled even though they may be famous.  Water baptism is to be done by immersing the person in the water, and only after a person repents and believes in Jesus Christ as their only hope of salvation.  Note Romans 6:4 and Col 2:12 as it is written Col 2:12-BURIED WITH HIM IN BAPTISM or buried with Him in water.  Ro 6:4-WE ARE BURIED WITH HIM BY BAPTISM or buried with Him by water.  Neither will you find in the Bible that John Baptist or any follower of Jesus ever baptized infants. 
   Then John Baptist begins to divert attention from himself.  He begins to speak of another.  His mission is to go before Christ to prepare the way.  His mission is not to point to himself as so many clergy do in these latter days.  John said—
   BUT THERE (STANDS) ONE AMONG YOU.  Jesus had already fasted and had now returned and was standing among the people, but John does not seem to identify Him.  The verse continues—
   WHOM (YOU) KNOW NOT.  John diverted the question away from himself to Christ.  His focus was not on himself but on Christ.  Such was also the case in Jn 1:15 as John said-THIS WAS HE OF WHOM I SPAKE, HE THAT COMETH AFTER ME IS PREFERRED BEFORE ME: FOR HE WAS BEFORE ME.  These are also in harmony with 2 Cor 4:5-FOR WE PREACH NOT OURSELVES, BUT CHRIST JESUS THE LORD; AND OURSELVES YOUR SERVANTS FOR JESUS' SAKE.  Regretfully, many misled preachers do indeed preach much about themselves, and little about Christ.  Many church going people know far more about their preacher and his family than they do about Christ.  John clearly related in his words that the Pharisees did not know Christ and were in darkness spiritually.  John also seemed to be saying that you will not have to wait long for the Messiah.  The verses continue—

   Jn 1:27.                       HE IT IS.  The He is Christ.  The verse continues—
   WHO COMING AFTER ME.  John Baptist came before Christ to prepare the way.  Christ came about 6 months after John.  In addition John was born about 6 months prior to Jesus.  The verse continues—
   IS PREFERRED BEFORE ME.  Jesus Christ is from everlasting to everlasting.  He is preferred before John.  The verse continues—
   WHOSE SHOE'S (STRAP) (or sandals)
   I AM NOT WORTHY (or I’m not good enough even-JNT)
   TO (UNTIE).  These words are similar to those John spoke before Christ came and was baptized-ref Mt 3:11.  John indicated in Matthew, that he was not worthy to carry the Messiah’s sandals.  Here John states that he is not worthy to untie them.  John often spoke of himself in the context that he was nothing compared to Christ.  The attitude of John the Baptist was that of humility and unworthiness in comparison with the Christ.  It was an attitude of the lowest of slaves or servants.  This is a much different attitude than what is taught in many churches today where people seek to exalt themselves rather than humble themselves. 
   There is no indication that the blind religious leaders that were sent to John comprehended what John was saying.  There is no indication that they immediately asked which person it was that John spoke of that was standing among the people.  They did not come to humble themselves and repent as many others did.  Self righteous, highly religious people and clergy seldom ever humble themselves, come to repentance, and become born again.  Rather, they continue in their blind-but positive they are right (or positive they are saved) religious attitude of deception all the way to their death and then hell.  They continue to look like they are saved on the outside, but on the inside they are spiritually dead-ref Mt 23:27. 
   Such people as these often see true, born again, fruit bearing, light burning Christians as a threat.  The seek for a way to falsely accuse, discredit, silence, and even eliminate them.
   Satan’s followers (which are most people in the world) virtually never understand or believe they are following Satan.  They are often positive and secure in that they think they are saved.  They are usually sure they will go to a better place when they die.  The following Scriptures denote how deceived people can be.  Jesus said in Jn 16:2-3-THE TIME COMETH, THAT WHOSOEVER KILLETH YOU WILL THINK THAT HE DOETH GOD SERVICE.  AND THESE THINGS WILL THEY DO UNTO YOU, BECAUSE THEY HAVE NOT KNOWN THE FATHER, NOR ME.  They often think they are of God but they really oppose God. 
   The verses continue—

   Jn 1:28.    THESE THINGS WERE DONE IN BETHABARA-KJV, (Bethany-other translations).  It is reported that Bethabara means the “house of passage”.  It was—
   (EAST OF) JORDAN.  It is reported that there were actually 2 Bethany-s.  The one is where Lazarus lived which was near Jerusalem-ref Jn 11:1.  The other was east of Jordan near Jericho which is the one this verse is referring to.  Some believe this was in the vicinity that Joshua lead Israel over the Jordan into the promised land.  The verse continues—
   WHERE JOHN WAS BAPTIZING (or immersing).  Originally the Word came to John the Baptist in the wilderness.  Then John did baptize in the Jordan River somewhere in the wilderness area which is where Jesus was baptized.  Jesus afterward fasted 40 days in the wilderness.  Then Jesus returned to what appears to be the new place that John was baptizing.  That new location is now in Bethany, east of Jordan. 
   The verses continue—






   Jn 1:29.                      THE NEXT DAY
   JOHN (SAW) JESUS COMING (TOWARD) HIM,
   AND (SAID),
   (LOOK) THE LAMB OF GOD.  This is the first reference of Jesus Christ being called the Lamb of God.  The word “Lamb” being used to denote Christ, appears in the New Testament approximately 30 times.  One time it is used in a different fashion.  The Jewish people should have been able to identify with the word “lamb” as it was used during Passover.  As one searches the Scriptures it can be noted how various people saw the Christ. 

   Before His conception Mary saw by faith a son named Jesus Who was the Son of the Highest-ref Lk 1:31,31.
   Joseph saw by faith that which was conceived of the Holy Ghost Who would save His people from their sins-ref Mt 1:20,21.
   While He was in the yet in the womb of Mary, Elizabeth saw by faith Her Lord-ref Lk 1:43.
   Zacharias saw by faith the redemption for His people and a Horn of Salvation-ref Lk 1:68,69.
   The inn keeper in Bethlehem had no faith.  There was no place at the inn to put Joseph and Mary up.  He saw nothing-ref Lk 2:7.
   The angel of the Lord saw a Saviour-Christ the Lord-ref Lk 2:11.
   The shepherds saw a baby, but by faith saw a Sign and The Christ-ref Lk 2:11,12.
   The shepherds by faith became the first people ( or preachers) following the birth of Jesus to make known to others the saying which was told them concerning this child-ref Lk 2:17
   Simeon saw a baby, but by faith saw the Lord’s Christ and salvation, a light to lighten the Gentiles and a sign which was to be spoken against-Lk 2:32,34.
   Anna saw a baby but by faith saw redemption and a sign-ref Lk 2:12.
   The other people at the temple are never mentioned at the time of Simeon and Anna as seeing anything.  They had no faith.
   The wise men saw a young child, but by faith had traveled from the east and saw the King of the Jews, the Christ-ref Mt 2:4,9.
   King Herod saw a threat whom He tried to kill.  He had hatred and jealousy and no faith-ref Mt 2:16.
   The doctors in Jerusalem at the temple saw a 12 year old and were astonished by His understanding and answers, but they did not know this was the Christ.  They had no faith-ref Lk 2:42,47.
   The towns-people of Nazareth saw nothing more than a boy which grow up, a carpenter, and a carpenter’s son with brothers and sisters.  They had no faith-ref Mk 6:3; Mt 13:55,56.
   But John, through faith, saw the one and only Lamb of God which was the ultimate Sacrifice.  Jesus ultimately did what all the past Passover lambs could never do—He took away the sin of the world.
   Of the multitude of people that came in contact with the baby Jesus, the young child, the 12 year old, and then a carpenter—only a few selected by God and to whom it was revealed by the Holy Ghost, or angel of the Lord could understand-ref Lk 2:26.  So it is today.  Many hear or read the Word of God, but they see or understand little or nothing.  Some teach Sunday schools, preach in pulpits, and are missionaries.  Some appear to serve God in a full time ministry.  However, Jesus Christ, God Who came to this earth in human form is nothing more than an historical figure of long, long ago that has had little or no effect on changing or converting their heart and lives from the old man to the new.  They have never been Biblically born again.
   Yet, tragically, others allow the cares of this life, the deceitfulness of riches, the lusts of other things, personal desires, the pleasures of this life, temptations, fears, or persecutions to turn them aside. 
   Each called person in Jesus Christ needs to deny self, put that crown of thorns upon his own head in this life, pick up his cross and follow Jesus, so that he may obtain the crown of life for eternity.  Each needs to be careful and fight the good fight of faith so that they do not trade in the incorruptible crown for a corruptible one which shall pass away.  Each person needs to keep their thoughts centered on Jesus Christ, run the race with patience, keep their body, and bring it into subjection lest by some means the tempter tempt them and they fall away and become a castaway-ref 1 Cor 9:25,27.  It is written BLESSED IS THE MAN THAT ENDURETH TEMPTATION: FOR WHEN HE IS TRIED, HE SHALL RECEIVE THE CROWN OF LIFE, WHICH THE LORD HATH PROMISED TO THEM THAT LOVE HIM-Ja 1:12.  AND WHEN THE CHIEF SHEPHERD SHALL APPEAR, YE SHALL RECEIVE A CROWN OF GLORY THAT FADETH NOT AWAY-1 Pe 5:4.
   The verse continues—
   WHICH (TAKES) AWAY THE SIN.  Without the forgiveness of a person’s sins there can be no salvation-ref Isa 53:12; Heb 9:22; Ps 103:12; Ro 5:9.  The verse continues—
   OF THE WORLD.  We are reminded of the Passover lamb which was killed and it’s blood protected the people of Israel.  It is written of Jesus in Isa 53:7, and somewhat repeated in Acts 8:32-HE IS BROUGHT AS A LAMB (or sheep) TO THE SLAUGHTER.  Then in Ro 8:34-IT IS CHRIST THAT DIED.  Then it is written of those that follow Jesus in Ro 8:36-FOR THY SAKE WE ARE KILLED ALL THE DAY LONG; WE ARE ACCOUNTED AS SHEEP FOR THE SLAUGHTER. 
   Some or many of the people with John on this “next” day would have been different from the previous day.  In addition the investing committee would have probably left and returned to Jerusalem. 
   Taking away the sins of the world was a new doctrine.  This was accomplished at the cross as the Lamb of God was crucified and rose from the dead and now sits at the right hand of God making intercession for the saints-ref Ro 8:34; Heb 7:25-27.  It is written: Ro 4:25-WHO WAS DELIVERED FOR OUR OFFENCES, AND WAS RAISED AGAIN FOR OUR JUSTIFICATION.
   Up to this time, a person’s sins were only covered as it is written: Heb 10:1-4,8-FOR THE LAW HAVING A SHADOW OF GOOD THINGS TO COME, AND NOT THE VERY IMAGE OF THE THINGS, CAN NEVER WITH THOSE SACRIFICES WHICH THEY OFFERED YEAR BY YEAR CONTINUALLY MAKE THE COMERS THEREUNTO PERFECT.  FOR THEN WOULD THEY NOT HAVE CEASED TO BE OFFERED?  BECAUSE THAT THE WORSHIPPERS ONCE PURGED SHOULD HAVE HAD NO MORE CONSCIENCE OF SINS.  BUT IN THOSE SACRIFICES THERE IS A REMEMBRANCE AGAIN MADE OF SINS EVERY YEAR.  FOR IT IS NOT POSSIBLE THAT THE BLOOD OF BULLS AND OF GOATS SHOULD TAKE AWAY SINS.  ABOVE WHEN HE SAID, SACRIFICE AND OFFERING AND BURNT OFFERINGS AND OFFERING FOR SIN THOU WOULDEST NOT, NEITHER HADST PLEASURE THEREIN; WHICH ARE OFFERED BY THE LAW.
   Should a righteous person (one saved by faith-ref Ro 4:3; Gal 3:6l Ja 2:23) have died before the resurrection they would have gone to Paradise-ref Lk 23:43.  They could not go to heaven and dwell in the presence of a holy God as their sins had not yet been washed away by the blood of the Lamb.  He had not yet been crucified and raised from the dead.  Their sins had only been covered by the blood of animals. 
   Since the resurrection, a person’s sins are washed away by the blood of the Lamb.  The saved now go to be with Christ-ref Phili 2:21; 2 Cor 5:8, however the unsaved go to the place called Hell to await the great white throne judgment.  They cannot go to heaven.  They are not born again through trusting in Jesus Christ.  Their sins have never been washed away by the blood of the Lamb.

   Some might identify the use of the word “WORLD” as meaning that the forgiveness from God is extended to all the world.  The term “the world” does not mean all mankind, but rather those throughout the world (both Jew and Gentile) that God grants repentance—which are called and chosen of God-ref 2 Tim 2:25; Mt 11:25,26; 13:10-16; Jn 12:37-40; Acts 11:18.  1 Pe 1:2-Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father.  It means—all that would receive Him stedfastly as Lord and Saviour—both Jew and Gentile alike.  Only a few will ultimately receive Jesus Christ by faith and obey Him.  It is written Heb 5:9-AND BEING MADE PERFECT, HE BECAME THE AUTHOR OF ETERNAL SALVATION UNTO ALL THEM THAT OBEY HIM, ref Mt 7:21.
   If the Lamb of God took away the sin of all the world, everyone would be saved.  The Bible states clearly in many ways that only a few are really saved. 

   It is written, TELL THE WHOLE COMMUNITY OF ISRAEL THAT ON THE TENTH DAY OF THIS (first) MONTH EACH MAN IS TO TAKE A LAMB FOR HIS FAMILY, ONE FOR EACH HOUSEHOLD-NIV (Jesus was our Lamb).  YOUR LAMB SHALL BE WITHOUT BLEMISH, A MALE OF THE FIRST YEAR (Jesus was without blemish).  AND YE SHALL KEEP (or take care of) IT UP UNTIL THE FOURTEENTH DAY OF THE SAME MONTH.  They examined the lamb for four days, just as Jesus was examined when He came riding into Jerusalem four days before He was crucified.  AND THE WHOLE ASSEMBLY OF THE CONGREGATION OF ISRAEL SHALL KILL IT IN THE EVENING-Ex 12:3,5,6.  The family, obviously, must have become fond of the innocent little lamb that had become theirs for four days.  It is easy to highly esteem something, when one recognizes the great cost involved.  By keeping this command of God, there was a painful realization, by all, of the precious price being paid on their behalf.  This likewise portrayed the ultimate sacrifice for sins—when Jesus, our Passover Lamb, was sacrificed for us.  As it is written, in Jn 1:29-BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD, WHICH TAKETH AWAY THE SIN OF THE WORLD.  No bone was broken of our Lamb as He hung on the cross dying.  This was foretold in the Passover; as it is written, NEITHER SHALL YE BREAK A BONE THEREOF-Ex 12:46.  Even the fact that Jesus’ body was not to be left on the cross overnight was foretold in the Passover.  For it is written, NEITHER SHALL THE SACRIFICE OF THE FEAST OF THE PASSOVER BE LEFT UNTO THE MORNING-Ex 34:25.
   BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD, WHICH TAKETH AWAY THE SIN OF THE WORLD-Jn 1:29.  Jesus Christ (our Passover—His blood saves us) was crucified on this exact day at 9 a.m. (the third hour) and died at 3 p.m. (the ninth hour).  Jesus Christ is our unblemished Lamb, Who was examined for four days as He entered Jerusalem, then died for you and me.  HE IS BROUGHT AS A LAMB TO THE SLAUGHTER...HE WAS CUT OFF OUT OF THE LAND OF THE LIVING: FOR THE TRANSGRESSION OF MY PEOPLE WAS HE STRICKEN-Isa 53:7,8.  He became the ultimate sacrifice for sin. 
   The Feast of Passover was fulfilled on God’s exact date, when Jesus became our Passover Lamb on Passover itself.  As it is written, BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD, WHICH TAKETH AWAY THE SIN OF THE WORLD-Jn 1:29.  The verses
continue—






   Jn 1:30.                       THIS IS HE.  John makes a positive identification of the Christ, the Lamb of God.  Jesus seems to have referred to this identification in Jn 5:33,36.  It is written THIS IS HE—
   (the One) OF WHOM (I was talking about when-JNT) I SAID,
   AFTER ME
   (COMES) A MAN.  Note that John calls the Lamb of God “A MAN”—
   WHICH IS PREFERRED BEFORE ME (or has a higher rank than I-NASB).  The Lamb of God, the Christ is preferred before John—
   FOR HE (EXISTED)
   BEFORE ME.  John’s words confirms the Deity of the Lamb of God, the Christ.  John Baptist originally spoke these words before Jesus came to him and was baptized but now speaks them again-ref Jn 1:15.  Although John was born approximately 6 months before Jesus, Jesus Christ has existed from everlasting to everlasting.  By Him and for Him were all things created-ref Col 1:16.  Over and over we see the focus of John was upon the Messiah, not himself.  Jesus Christ fulfilled every Old Testament Scripture written about Him pertaining to His first coming.  The verses continue—

   Jn 1:31.                        AND I (myself) (this is John Baptist speaking).  He said he—
   (DID NOT RECOGNIZE HIM).  There are several possibilities for this statement.  This could indicate that Jesus and John may never have see each other at all.  Thus he did not recognize Him physically.  It may also be that John did not know that Jesus of Nazareth was the Messiah until it was revealed to Him by the Spirit lighting upon Him after being baptized.  Perhaps it was both.  The virgin Mary and Elizabeth, the mother of John were cousins.  Thus Jesus and John appears to have been distant relatives-ref Lk 1:36.  Perhaps John’s father and mother Elizabeth, had not revealed to him what they knew.  The verse continues—
   BUT THAT HE SHOULD BE (REVEALED) TO ISRAEL.  John may not have recognized Jesus, or knew Who the Christ was until the time came for Him to be revealed to Israel.  John said—
   THEREFORE AM I COME
   BAPTIZING WITH WATER.  John knew ahead of time that the Christ would be revealed to Israel.  It is for this reason that he was baptizing the repentant people with water that believed the Messiah was soon to come even though he didn’t seem to know Who He was.  The verses continue—






   Jn 1:32.                      AND JOHN (BORE) RECORD, SAYING,
   I SAW THE SPIRIT
   DESCENDING FROM HEAVEN LIKE A DOVE,
   AND IT ABODE (or remained) UPON HIM.  This event that John Baptist described happened an estimated 61 days previously.  It is recorded in Mt 3:16.  This is further testified in the Old Testament as it is written in Isa 11:2-AND THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD SHALL REST UPON HIM, THE SPIRIT OF WISDOM AND UNDERSTANDING, THE SPIRIT OF COUNSEL AND MIGHT, THE SPIRIT OF KNOWLEDGE AND OF THE FEAR OF THE LORD.The verses continue—

   Jn 1:33.                       AND I KNEW HIM NOT (or I) (did not recognize Him-NASB).  Again John the Baptist
states he did not know or recognize Jesus the Christ as was said in verse 31.  The verse continues—
   BUT HE (the One) THAT SENT ME
   TO BAPTIZE (or immerse) (IN) WATER.  God the Father sent John the Baptist to baptize in water.  The verse continues—
   THE SAME SAID
   (TO) ME.  God the Father speaks to His people.  John the Baptist was filled with the Spirit of God from the womb-ref Lk 1:15.   The verse continues—
   UPON WHOM (YOU) SHALT SEE THE SPIRIT
   DESCENDING, AND REMAINING ON HIM.  Not only did the Spirit of God descend upon Jesus, but it remained on Him.  The verse continues—
   THE SAME IS HE (or this is the One-NASB).  God had told John what sign to look for so he would know Who the Lamb of God was. God had told him, THE SAME IS HE (which is the Messiah)—
   WHICH (BAPTIZES) (or immerses)
   WITH THE HOLY GHOST (or Spirit).  The baptism that the Christ does is not a water baptism.  Jesus said just before he ascended up to be with His Father about 3 years and 4 months later in Acts 1:5-FOR JOHN TRULY BAPTIZED WITH WATER; BUT YE SHALL BE BAPTIZED WITH THE HOLY GHOST NOT MANY DAYS HENCE.  That event happened at Pentecost ref Acts 2:1-4, about 3 ½ Years later.  The verses continue—

   Jn 1:34.                  AND I SAW.  John actually saw the things he was speaking of.  He was an eye witness.  John saw—
   AND BARE RECORD (or testify).  Having actually saw these things, John now bears record—
   THAT THIS IS THE SON OF GOD.  John states clearly, that the person which is known as Jesus of Nazareth, and is known as the Lamb of God, is the actual Son of God.  Being that Jesus is the one and only begotten Son of God, He is Deity.  This means He is the long awaited Christ that the people were waiting for according to Daniel’s prophecy.  This is the One that would take away the sin of the world.  This is literally, God manifested in the flesh. 
   It appears, however, that Jesus did not allow the unclean spirits or His disciples to tell people that He was the Son of God, as it is written:  Mk 3:11,12-Unclean spirits, said: THOU ART THE SON OF GOD.  AND HE STRAITLY CHARGED THEM THAT THEY SHOULD NOT MAKE HIM KNOWN.  Mk 8:29,30 and Lk 9:20,21-PETER…SAITH UNTO HIM, THOU ART THE CHRIST.  AND HE CHARGED THEM THAT THEY SHOULD TELL NO MAN OF HIM.
   John did not go before the religious leaders of his day to ask permission to do what he was doing.  John’s direction was from God as confirmed by the Word of God. 
   The words “Son of God” appears approximately 1 time in the Old Testament and 50 times in the New Testament.

   The word or words begotten, indicating that Jesus is the only begotten Son of God or the words only begotten Son appear in the following verses:  Jn 1:14, 18; 3:16, 18; Heb 1:5; 5:5; 1 Jn 1:9. 
   There were times when Jesus himself clearly showed that He is the Son of God.  There were times when others testified that He is the Son of God.  There were times when unclean spirits would tell the people that He was the Son of God, but He rebuked them and stopped them from doing so.  Following are some examples of these.
   Jesus stopped the unclean spirits from making Him known.  Mk 1:24-25-They said-LET US ALONE; WHAT HAVE WE TO DO WITH THEE, THOU JESUS OF NAZARETH? ART THOU COME TO DESTROY US?  I KNOW THEE WHO THOU ART, THE HOLY ONE OF GOD.  AND JESUS REBUKED HIM, SAYING, HOLD THY PEACE, AND COME OUT OF HIM.
   Mk 3:11-12-AND UNCLEAN SPIRITS, WHEN THEY SAW HIM, FELL DOWN BEFORE HIM, AND CRIED, SAYING, THOU ART THE SON OF GOD.  AND HE STRAITLY CHARGED THEM THAT THEY SHOULD NOT MAKE HIM KNOWN.
   Others referred to Jesus as the Son of God.  It is written in Jn 11:3,4-THEREFORE HIS SISTERS SENT UNTO HIM, SAYING, LORD, BEHOLD, HE WHOM THOU LOVEST IS SICK.  WHEN JESUS HEARD THAT, HE SAID, THIS SICKNESS IS NOT UNTO DEATH, BUT FOR THE GLORY OF GOD, THAT THE SON OF GOD MIGHT BE GLORIFIED THEREBY.
   Jn 11:27-SHE SAITH UNTO HIM, YEA, LORD: I BELIEVE THAT THOU ART THE CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD, WHICH SHOULD COME INTO THE WORLD.
   Jesus used the words Son of God with reference to Himself.  Jesus said in Jn 5:25-VERILY, VERILY, I SAY UNTO YOU, THE HOUR IS COMING, AND NOW IS, WHEN THE DEAD SHALL HEAR THE VOICE OF THE SON OF GOD: AND THEY THAT HEAR SHALL LIVE.
   Jn 9:35-37-JESUS HEARD THAT THEY HAD CAST HIM OUT; AND WHEN HE HAD FOUND HIM, HE SAID UNTO HIM, DOST THOU BELIEVE ON THE SON OF GOD?  HE ANSWERED AND SAID, WHO IS HE, LORD, THAT I MIGHT BELIEVE ON HIM?  AND JESUS SAID UNTO HIM, THOU HAST BOTH SEEN HIM, AND IT IS HE THAT TALKETH WITH THEE.
   Jn 10:36-SAY YE OF HIM, WHOM THE FATHER HATH SANCTIFIED, AND SENT INTO THE WORLD, THOU BLASPHEMEST; BECAUSE I SAID, I AM THE SON OF GOD?
   Mk 14:61-62-THE HIGH PRIEST ASKED HIM,…ART THOU THE CHRIST, THE SON OF THE BLESSED?  AND JESUS SAID, I AM.
   Jn 8:58-JESUS SAID UNTO THEM, VERILY, VERILY, I SAY UNTO YOU, BEFORE ABRAHAM WAS, I AM.
   The verses continue—

   Jn 1:34-AND I SAW, AND BARE RECORD THAT THIS IS THE SON OF GOD.
   Jn 4:34-MY MEAT IS TO DO THE WILL OF HIM THAT SENT ME, AND TO FINISH HIS WORK.
   Jn 5:23-THE FATHER WHICH HATH SENT HIM.
   Jn 5:30-THE FATHER WHICH HATH SENT ME.
   Jn 5:37-THE FATHER HIMSELF, WHICH HATH SENT ME.
   Jn 5:38-WHOM HE HATH SENT.
   Jn 6:29-HIM WHOM HE HATH SENT.
   Jn 6:38-HIM THAT SENT ME.
   Jn 6:39-THE FATHER'S…WHICH HATH SENT ME.
   Jn 6:40-HIM THAT SENT ME.
   Jn 6:44-THE FATHER WHICH HATH SENT ME.
   Jn 6:57-THE LIVING FATHER HATH SENT ME.
   Jn 7:16-MY DOCTRINE IS NOT MINE, BUT HIS THAT SENT ME.
   Jn 7:28-29-I AM NOT COME OF MYSELF, BUT HE THAT SENT ME IS TRUE.
   Jn 7:29-FOR I AM FROM HIM, AND HE HATH SENT ME.
   Jn 8:18-THE FATHER THAT SENT ME BEARETH WITNESS OF ME.
   Jn 8:26-HE THAT SENT ME IS TRUE.
   Jn 8:29-AND HE THAT SENT ME.
   Jn 8:42-FOR I PROCEEDED FORTH AND CAME FROM GOD; NEITHER CAME I OF MYSELF, BUT HE SENT ME.
   Jn 9:4-HIM THAT SENT ME.
   Jn 10:36-THE FATHER HATH…SENT INTO THE WORLD.
   Jn 11:42-THOU HAST SENT ME.
   Jn 12:44-HIM THAT SENT ME.
   Jn 12:45-HIM THAT SENT ME.
   Jn 12:49-THE FATHER WHICH SENT ME.
   Jn 13:20-HIM THAT SENT ME.
   Jn 14:24-THE FATHER'S WHICH SENT ME.
   Jn 15:21-HIM THAT SENT ME.
   Jn 16:5-HIM THAT SENT ME.
   Jn 17:3-WHOM THOU HAST SENT.
   Jn 17:18-THOU HAST SENT ME.
   Jn 17:21-THOU HAST SENT ME.
   Jn 17:23-THOU HAST SENT ME.
   Jn 17:25-THOU HAST SENT ME.
   Jn 20:21-MY FATHER HATH SENT ME



   Beginning with verse 35, the Bible begins to focus on the ministry of Jesus rather than the ministry of John Baptist.  It is also the beginning of some of John’s disciples leaving him to go with Jesus.
   Jn 1:35.                  AGAIN THE NEXT DAY.  Two days previously Jesus stood in the crowd.  The next day John points Him out and identifies Him as the Son of God.  Now the next day—
   AFTER JOHN STOOD, (WITH) TWO OF HIS DISCIPLES.  John undoubtedly had many disciples at this time-note Jn 3:25.  A bit further on we understand that the two were Andrew and probably John who wrote the Gospel of John.  The verses continue—

   Jn 1:36.                       AND LOOKING (AT) JESUS
  AS HE WALKED (passing by).  Jesus was passing by the location that John the Baptist was located at.  The verse continues—
   HE (SAID), (LOOK).  John tells his disciples and others that might have been standing there to “look”—
   THE LAMB OF GOD!  Again John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God.  John had no pride or fear that he might loose some of his disciples to Jesus.  He appeared to take every possible opportunity possible to direct people to Jesus.  Many men did follow Jesus for it is written in Jn 1:26,27,30-ALL MEN COME TO HIM.  John seemed to indicate that those that were with him and those that followed Jesus were ordained from God as it is written: A MAN CAN RECEIVE NOTHING EXCEPT IT BE GIVEN HIM FROM HEAVEN.  HE MUST INCREASE, BUT I MUST DECREASE.  Again John’s focus was on Jesus, not himself.  This is the way it should be with all Christians, but sadly, most have their focus on themselves far more than on Jesus.  We are reminded of the Scripture in Isa 26:3-THOU WILT KEEP HIM IN PERFECT PEACE, WHOSE MIND IS STAYED ON THEE: BECAUSE HE TRUSTETH IN THEE. 
   John could not take away the sins of the world.  He had already said in verse 29 that it was the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world.  The verses continue—

   Jn 1:37.                      AND THE TWO DISCIPLES.  These are two that were disciples of John, they—
   HEARD HIM (that is John Baptist)—
   SPEAK (this),
   AND THEY FOLLOWED JESUS.  By this time they should have understood that Jesus was the long awaited Christ, but their understanding would have been very shallow.  Little did they comprehend that what they were doing was the beginning of a change in their life for eternity.  They did not understand that during the millennium they would rule over the twelve tribes of Israel-ref Lk 22:30.  They did not know that their names would forever be written in the foundations of New Jerusalem-ref Rev 21:14.  They did not understand that it was God in heaven that had put it in their hearts to follow Jesus. 
   The following of Jesus in this passage is not in the since of picking up your cross and following Him spiritually, but rather, physically they followed Him.  They would be called to “FOLLOW HIM” totally in Mt 4:19 about 8 months later.  The verses continue—

   Jn 1:38.                        THEN JESUS TURNED (around),
   AND SAW THEM FOLLOWING.  This indicates that they were behind Him.  Jesus spoke—
   AND (SAID) (TO) THEM,
   WHAT SEEK (YOU)?  These are the first words recorded in John’s Gospel that Jesus spoke.  The first words Jesus spoke chronologically are in Lk 2:49.  Jesus opened the door to them by speaking first.  As one studies the words of Jesus, it is noted that he spoke few words but what He spoke was to the point.  He did not waist words.  What His father gave Him to speak, that He spoke. 


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