May 1

Behold the Lamb of God 

Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalm 63:1-11 | Judges 13:1-14:20 | John 1:29-51 | Proverbs 14:15-16

Today’s Scripture Focus: John 1:29-51

The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!  This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks ahead of me because he was before me’” (John 1:29-30 NRSV).

From the beginning to end, the Gospel of John paints a spectacular and exalted picture of Jesus. The testimony of John the Baptist is a case in point. What do we learn about Jesus’ identity through his testimony as recounted in the gospel of John?

Jesus is the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” John paints a picture of Jesus mission through the familiar imagery of sacrifice in the Hebrew Scriptures. Surprisingly, Jesus is the lamb for the sacrifice. In so doing he foreshadows Jesus who will die for our sins.

Jesus is the one who “was before,” hinting at Jesus’ pre-existence as a member of the Trinity. He is pre-eminent and worthy of exaltation and honor.

Jesus is the one who “baptizes with the Holy Spirit.” The eschatological hopes of the prophets find their fulfillment in Jesus. He is the one in whom Israel’s hope (and that of the whole world) is found. He is the one who will ascend to the right hand of the Father as the enthroned Messiah who will pour out the Spirit and empower the church.

Jesus is the chosen one, the very Son of God. There can be no doubt that Jesus is God incarnate in human flesh.

Jesus, the exalted Messiah and King; the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world; He is worthy of our praise. Worship him from the depths of your heart!

Jesus, you are the exalted Messiah and King, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Thank you are taking away my sin. Praise the Lord! Amen.