Anticipating His ArrivalНамуна

To Testify about the Light

Reflect on these questions after reading John 1:6–8, 19–28.

• Why was John sent? And who is “the light”?

John was sent to tell people about “the light” (vv. 7–8). The light is Jesus Christ. John’s job was to tell the world of the coming of the Messiah, Jesus.

• Why did the people confuse John with “the Christ” (the Messiah, Jesus) and Elijah?

John was doing amazing things, things that caused people to think he was the Messiah (v. 20–25). There were also prophecies that Elijah would return prior to the return of the Lord (Mal 4:5). John’s appearance even reminded some of Elijah (v. 21; 2 Kings 1:8).

• How does this relate to joy during the Advent season?

The beginning of Jesus’ earthly ministry was announced by John the Baptist. It was not a secret. The second advent of Jesus, his triumphal return, will occur. As his return gets close, there will be signs of his coming. We should rejoice in the expectation of seeing them.