JOHN 3:1-36

Out in the wilderness he speaks the truth as the Spirit gave him the words. His followers had seen Jesus and heard John proclaim Him “The Lamb of God”. Even so, they were jealous of Jesus and the folks who seemed to abandon John to go and follow Jesus. Something in the hearts of men stirs up thoughts of envy and jealousy simply because of self-interests. Yet, John understood his self-interest to precisely require the ascent of Jesus.

John’s joy rested in Jesus, not the praise of people

The work of John was preparatory. The Messiah would come and John knew that he was not this man. He labored and toiled and encouraged and rebuked simply to prepare the people. As with anyone doing the Lord’s will, there was joy for John. Only when Messiah arrived on the scene, however, could John proclaim his joy was complete. His ministry could now subside. Jesus came to save him, too.

The world was in Jesus’ hands, not John’s

Like John, our work has never been to save the world. Rather, we are heralds of the King, called to speak of Him. Decreasing as Jesus is increased all around us, joy is in the presence of Messiah. There is an interesting juxtaposition in the huge crowds with the personal interaction with Nicodemus. We must broadcast the Word, but individuals must encounter Jesus personally. As with John, joy is not of the messenger, but of the Messiah.

A believer must still obey

Eternal life comes through the willing obedience of the believer. Compare John 3:16 to John 3:36. The message opens the way for each believer to respond. Nicodemus and all of the Jewish leaders knew Jesus was from God … they “believed” this. Jesus taught him that they must come to understand that He is not merely “from” God, but actually IS God, the Son of God. Upon believing this, each person SHOULD NOT perish. Clearly, absent obedience, wrath still comes.

Light has come into the world

Mere belief is a human mind assessing facts. You believe Jesus is God’s Son? So what? The question becomes do you love darkness (sin) more than light (Jesus)? Jesus draws people near and then gives them a choice. As we obey, the mission of Jesus is fulfilled in each one … and joy is complete.

Discover … His Joy

Access … His Joy

Share … His Joy