Tuesday 7th February
Read John 5:33-35
“‘You have sent to John and he has testified to the truth.34 Not that I accept human testimony; but I mention it that you may be saved.35 John was a lamp that burned and gave light, and you chose for a time to enjoy his light.” (NIVUK)
The inner witness of perfect communion between Father and Son – the ground of Jesus’ complete confidence in His authority to judge and work on the Sabbath – is unlikely to be enough for the religious authorities. By way of concession, and to lead them to salvation, He provides them with an independent human witness to His claims. John the Baptist.
Jesus refers them back to their delegation to John (to check out on what authority he was speaking) (cf John 1:19-36). The findings of which continue to remain valid and true – just as his witness continues to be true. He maintained he was not the Messiah but one making straight the way for the Lord. Given how long the silence from Yahweh had lasted this was great news indeed! But ultimately they considered it only as news. They were drawn to the light and found joy that John was speaking but did not listen closely to what he was saying – did not hear or see to whom he was pointing them.
Jesus is likely referring to John using the language of Psalm 132. A Messianic psalm promising a Messiah from David’s line that will cause the faithful to sing for joy (cf Psalm 132:9,16). Speaking of that joy, the psalmist declares that in Jerusalem, where Jesus is speaking…
“‘Here I will make a horn grow for David
and set up a lamp for my anointed one.” (Psalm 132:17) (NIVUK)
John the Baptist is the ‘lamp’ Yahweh established to light the path to the strong One from David’s line, the anointed one. A witness in the present to verify Jesus’ claims – and also a witness from Scripture (v39). The challenge to light the way to Jesus, as John did, remains just as present today. How bright do you shine?
“‘You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16) (NIVUK)
