Sermon Introduction

Baptisms and Bridegrooms and Beliefs, oh my.

This Sunday, we will see all of these things in action, as we take another look at John 3.

In verses 22–36, we will find another priestly figure in Israel who has to make a decision about Jesus. Only this time the response will be different. Whereas Nicodemus came to the Lord in the darkness of night, John the Baptist will see Jesus by the light of the day. And in the light of day, Jesus is seen baptizing. That is to say, he is doing what John has been doing. And recognizing the turf war that is about to take place, John’s disciples go to their teacher concerned about John’s future.

Yet, instead of resisting Jesus, fighting for his ministry and his baptism, John submits himself to the Lord and demonstrates what true and humble faith looks like. Not only does John’s obedient faith stand in contrast to Nicodemus’s false faith, but it invites us to consider how we respond to Jesus, when he takes away our place of ministry and prominence.

Can we say with gladness that I must decrease in order for Jesus to increase?

Sunday, we will look carefully at the two baptisms of Jesus and John, as well as the way the friend of the bridegroom points to the groom. To prepare for Sunday, read over John 3 and pray for God to lead us out of darkness and into the light. If you are looking to better understand John 2–4, this blogpost might be helpful. And if baptism, especially baptism by immersion, is still a question for you, this blogpost on John 3 may also help.

Studying John has been a deep joy for me, and I look forward to sharing the gospel goodness of John 3 on Sunday. May the Lord grant us grace to gather and to see the glory of his Son.

For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
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Discussion & Response Questions
1. How does seeing the parallelism between Nicodemus (3:1–21) and John (3:22–36) help us understand John’s message?
2. What is the main point of the passage?
3. How might this passage inform our understanding of the doctrine of baptism?
4. How is John’s baptism different from Christian baptism?
5. How does baptism relate to the new birth? Water baptism relate to baptism in the Spirit?
6. What might we learn from John’s response to his disciples about the departure of his followers?
7. Why is John joyful in his diminishment?
8. Who is being contrasted in verses 31-36? What is the composite picture of each person?
9. What truths does this text reveal about our Triune God and the working of Father, Son, and Spirit in accomplishing salvation?
10. What does it mean to obey the Son in verse 36? (See also Romans 1:1-6 and 16:25-27).
11. How ought we to respond to these truths?