Encountering JesusSample

DISCOVER

The passage we are looking at today is a conversation between John the Baptist and his followers. They approached him concerning Jesus’ ministry, saying that some of those who had followed John are now following Jesus. They come to him expecting John to be upset that he has lost some of his following, but that is not his response. In verse 29, John calls himself the friend of the bridegroom, who rejoices at the sound of the bridegroom's voice.

LEARN

In Jewish weddings, the bride groom's friend was called the “shoshben.” His role was to attend to the bridegroom's needs and serve as the middleman between the bride's and groom's families. In this analogy, John says that his role is subservient to that of Jesus; it was temporary and mediating. The Messiah was about to "marry" humanity and thus consummate God's covenant with His people. John had the high honor of brokering this all-important event!

APPLY

Have you ever been in a wedding as a groomsman or a bridesmaid? Their job is to love, support, and excite the bride and groom on their special day.The picture of being a groomsman or bridesmaid is a small glimpse of what we are to be for Jesus. Just as a wedding is not about the wedding party, this life is not about us, it is about Jesus, who we are to lift up any chance we get. As John 3:30 says, “He must increase, but I must decrease.”