John 1:15
John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me.
John 1:15
John the Baptist continues to testify about Jesus, affirming Jesus’ preeminence. “This was he of whom I spake” remembers the Baptist’s own proclamation and witness. “He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me” signals the paradox: John’s ministry begins before Jesus in time, yet Jesus has pre-existence and surpasses him in rank and divinity. This declares Jesus’ eternal existence and superiority, establishing a theological anchor for the Gospel’s claim about Jesus’ identity.
This verse strengthens the Christological claim: Jesus exists before John, and His origin is divine. It highlights the continuity between John’s prophetic role and Jesus’ messianic mission. It also demonstrates the proper response to Jesus’ greatness: faithful witness and humble service that points to Christ.
- Learn from John the Baptist: prioritize directing others to Jesus rather than seeking personal fame.
- Practice humility in leadership: even when you’re “first,” point to the One who is truly first.
- Share the witness: articulate how Jesus’ life impacts yours in practical, compassionate ways.
Cross-References
- John 3:30
- Mark 1:7-8
- Malachi 3:1
- Isaiah 42:1
- Colossians 1:15-18