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Behold The Lamb Of God

Posted 1/26/2025

The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me. And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water. And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost. And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God...

Scripture: John 1:29-34

Introduction:

  • A story of recognition—how seeing someone or something for what it truly is can change everything.
  • In today's passage, John the Baptist declares the true identity and mission of Jesus. This proclamation holds life-changing truths for us today.

I. Behold the Lamb of God (v. 29)

“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”

  • Historical context: The Jewish audience would immediately think of the sacrificial lamb in the Old Testament, especially the Passover lamb (Exodus 12).
    • The lamb’s blood protected the Israelites from judgment.
    • This was a foreshadowing of Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice.
  • Spiritual truth: Jesus came to deal with humanity's greatest problem—sin.
    • Sin separates us from God. Jesus, as the Lamb of God, bridges that gap.
  • Application: Are we truly beholding Jesus in our lives? Or are we distracted by lesser things?

II. The Preeminence of Christ (vv. 30-31)

“This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.’”

  • John the Baptist recognizes Jesus’ eternal nature and superiority.
    • Although Jesus began His earthly ministry after John, He existed before all things (John 1:1).
  • John’s humility: John was a respected prophet, yet he points others to Jesus, not himself.
    • Application: How can we live with humility, consistently pointing others to Christ instead of seeking recognition?

III. The Spirit’s Confirmation (vv. 32-33)

“I saw the Spirit descend from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him.”

  • The anointing of the Spirit: The descending dove was a visible sign of God’s approval and empowerment for Jesus’ mission.
    • This fulfills Old Testament prophecy about the Messiah being filled with the Spirit (Isaiah 61:1).
  • John testifies that God revealed Jesus’ identity to him.
    • Application: Are we attentive to the Spirit’s work in our lives, confirming God’s direction and truth?

IV. The Savior of the World (v. 34)

“And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.”

  • John boldly declares that Jesus is not just a prophet or teacher but the very Son of God.
  • Implication of Jesus’ identity:
    • As the Son of God, Jesus has the authority and power to save us.
    • His sacrifice is sufficient to take away the sins of the entire world.
  • Application: Have you personally accepted Jesus as the Son of God and Savior of your life?

Conclusion:

  • Lets summarize these key points: Jesus as the Lamb of God, His eternal preeminence, the confirmation of the Spirit, and His identity as the Son of God.
  • Self examination to challenge ourselves:
    • Are we truly beholding Jesus in our daily lives?
    • Do we share John’s boldness in pointing others to Christ?
  • An invitation to respond:
    • For believers: Renew your focus on Jesus and His mission.
    • For seekers: Consider what it means for Jesus to be your Lamb, your Savior, and your God.

Closing Prayer:
God we ask you to help us to "behold" Jesus in every aspect of our lives and to live in light of His identity and mission.

In Jesus mighty name we pray.  Amen!