John 3:22-26
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
Read John 3:22-36 imagining you are hearing John as he speaks. Listen carefully and take note of anything that stands out to you or anything that disturbs you.
Before you consider the rest of this story, contemplate John the Baptist’s words in verse 36: “…anyone who believes in God’s Son has eternal life. Anyone who doesn’t obey the Son will never experience eternal life but remains under God’s angry judgment.” How do you feel about these words?
A quick look at the Greek word translated “angry judgment” indicates a “swollen” or “settled” anger. This is not an outburst of anger in the moment, but a constant, inherent opposition. God’s holy character stands in opposition to any behavior or belief that distorts truth and deceives people. God provided rescue for us through Jesus, and a rejection of Jesus is a rejection of God. God’s “angry judgment” is not so much a punishment as a consequence of unbelief.
Consider this in silence for a moment.
Read John 3:22-36 again paying close attention to the actions and words of John the Baptist’s disciples.
What do you notice in this story about the faith and leadership of John the Baptist? Discuss this with Jesus.
The author, John, chose to include the fact that John the Baptist’s disciples were engaged in a debate about something to do with ritual purification before they voiced their concerns about Jesus. It seems they became wrapped up in this sidebar debate to the point that they almost missed the more important point.
It’s possible to become focused on a point of disagreement and miss the bigger picture. How do you deal with the need to be right? Talk to Jesus about this.
John the Baptist is secure in his identity and God-given calling, but his disciples have confused their work with their worth. John understands that he is the forerunner of the Messiah, and he is more than willing for Jesus to assume prominence. John dares not hold on to fame or popularity, because he knows he cannot rescue anyone from the captivity of human rebellion. He points everyone, including those who respect and follow him, only to Jesus.
According to John’s example, pointing away from oneself to point others to Jesus is the test of true spiritual leadership. What issues might arise for spiritual leaders whose followers desire more of them than they are able to give? Ask Jesus to give you insight as you think this over.
Before you end this time of meditation, imagine yourself in the presence of Jesus. Consider asking Jesus to point out any attitudes or loyalties that may be getting in the way of your complete devotion to him. If anything comes to mind, picture yourself handing it over to Jesus.
If you sense that Jesus is calling you to some further action, write out what you plan to do about it.
Subscribe here to receive these guided meditations free by email Monday-Friday each week. If you find these meditations helpful, please forward them to a couple of friends.
The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide ebook can help you learn how to recognize God's voice, how to read and understand the Bible, how to develop deep spiritual friendships, and how to become the person you were meant to be. Use it alone, with a friend or in a small group.
