John 3:23
And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized.
John 3:23
In John 3:23, the text notes that John the Baptist was baptizing in Aenon near Salim “because there was much water there.” The detail about abundant water isn’t incidental; baptism in Jewish and Greco-Roman contexts often required immersion, and water availability signals a practical reason for the location. Aenon is a spring or a place with abundant streams near Salim (Salim being near the Jordan). The Gospel writer emphasizes water-rich locations to highlight the ongoing public ministry of John and the ongoing practice of baptism as a symbol of repentance and readiness for the Messiah. The scene also situates John’s ministry geographically in the Jordan valley, where many people traveled from Judea and nearby regions to hear him. The reference to “much water” underscores the ritual nature of baptism as immersion, not mere sprinkling, and foreshadows the fuller water-work of the Spirit that Jesus would bring later.
This verse points to the practicality of John’s ministry: he prepared the way with repentance, using baptism as a public sign. The emphasis on location and water reinforces the theme that temporary, earthly sites serve a divine purpose in God’s plan. More deeply, John’s role is to prepare for Jesus, and the continual practice of baptism demonstrates God’s ongoing call to conversion. The abundance of water can symbolize abundance in God’s mercy and the ongoing availability of cleansing and new life for all who come to God humbly. It also contrasts with Jesus’ future ministry, where the spiritual “living water” He offers will surpass ceremonial washing, pointing to a deeper cleansing of heart.
Practically, John 3:23 invites believers to recognize that the location of spiritual moments matters less than the condition of the heart. Whether at a baptismal pool, a church, or by a riverbank in nature, the key is repentance and readiness to receive God’s promises. As a community, consider where you gather for meaningful spiritual “water”—moments of confession, renewal, and recommitment. The verse also invites humility: John’s ministry points beyond himself to Jesus. In daily life, we can examine where we seek cleansing or renewal and ensure we aren’t turning to ceremony alone but to God’s transforming work in the heart. Practical example: organize a local outdoor baptism service or a community day of confession and forgiveness, emphasizing that God meets us wherever we come in sincerity.
Cross-References: Isaiah 55:1; John 1:26-27; Acts 19:4; Revelation 7:14