QT 10/14/2026 John 1:29–34, The world is attacking our faith

John 1:29–34 (ESV) —

29 The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.’ 31 I myself did not know him, but for this purpose I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel.” 32 And John bore witness: “I saw the Spirit descend from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. 33 I myself did not know him, but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.”

 

NOTE: Very clearly, John the Baptist tells us that Jesus was different. John already knows that he is the lamb of God, and unlike the sacrifices, he does not cover sin, Jesus takes away the sin of the world. That is a huge difference. John also states that Jesus was before him even though John is older by 3-6 months. Jesus is older, because Jesus is eternal. Later Jesus would say, "before Abraham was born, I am." Jesus is the eternal God, as John the author has already argued. Lastly, John the Baptist states that Jesus was the Son of God. Later in his life, as he had been sitting in prison, he would begin to doubt, but clearly God the father has revealed to him the mission of Jesus.

 

What does it mean for us? I think my side comment of John doubting later in life is good to remember. The world pounds away at us, and our sure faith can be a doubting faith at times. We need to reestablish ourselves in the basics and repeat for ourselves the truths of the gospel. The days are coming to a close. Our enthusiasm should be higher every day.

 

PONDER:

1. Do I struggle with doubts at times, like John the Baptist? Confess it, repent, and move on. The enemy is working mightily to destroy our faith.

 

PRAYER: Father, when I say the enemy, I mean all of his minions. I doubt the enemy knows my name, but some demons do. And the world system works for the enemy as it tries to destroy the faith of millions by proclaiming falsities that pretend to be truth. It is an incredibly evil system that destroys so many in its attempts to spread the enemy's lies. Father, open our eyes to real truth.