The Witness of John the Baptist
6 There came a man who was sent from God. His name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify about the Light, so that through him everyone might believe. 8 He himself was not the Light, but he came to testify about the Light. (John 1:6-8 ESV)
John the Baptist, the cousin of Jesus, preached in the wilderness, to testify about the Light. God’s plan was that “everyone might believe.” The writer of the book of John, doesn’t want us to confuse the prophet with the Messiah, Jesus is The Light. Jesus’ work is the central purpose of the book of John.
9 The true Light who gives light to every man was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him. 11 He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. 12 But to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, [God] gave the right to [those who believe] become children of God— 13 children born not of blood, nor of the desire or will of man, but born of God. (John 1:9-13 ESV)
God gave the right to become his children.
Now, let’s try some Bible Study. What’s do we observe about the next paragraph? Try this – list four ideas, that you think drive the story. Here’s what I observed: 1) The light was coming, a historical event. 2) He was in the world but not recognized. 3) Even His own, likely referring to the Jewish community. 4) Those who believed became part of a new community — born of God.
God wants to expand his family
One more connection related to 8 Moves: Today is Tuesday, the third day of the week: In the back of your mind you may be thinking, that’s the land, what’s that have to do with this story? When the Son of God landed on earth, it was a very specific place and time. Those are two elements that make it historical. He belonged to the nation of Israel. His life was significant, as a historic event and placement within the family of humanity. What does this mean for you? How should you live your life in response to the light God has provided? Or the time and place he’s put you in. Take time to journal or start up a conversation with a friend or family member. (370 words)
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