It’s not an easy thing to be the act that comes before the main event, especially when the main event is the Word made flesh! Here we read a gentle transition between the one who came before Jesus and the ones who would follow him. Yes, the Nazarene still tells us, “Follow me.”
Weekly Memory Verse: John 1:29b
“Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”
Monday, September 26 Read John 1:19-34. The Gospel of John characterized John the Baptist in a unique light. Why do you think some would rather call him “John the Testifier?”
Tuesday, September 27 Read John 1:35-51. John’s testimony leads some of his disciples to follow Jesus. They in turn invite others. What did it take to get Nathanael to follow a man from Nazareth?
Wednesday, September 28 After reviewing John 1:19-51, read Deuteronomy 18:15-22 and Malachi 4:1-6. Why did the people wonder about John the Baptist’s real identity? “Who are they looking for?”
Thursday, September 29 After reviewing John 1:19-51, read Isaiah 53:1-12. Isaiah paints a vivid picture of a suffering servant. What part of John’s testimony brings back these images? How are these words foreshadowing the purpose Jesus’ coming?
Friday, September 30 After reviewing John 1:19-51, read Revelation 5:1-14. This stunning picture of heaven displays a “Lamb, looking as if it had been slain.” Why is this description in past tense? What makes the Lamb worthy to open the scrolls?
Saturday, October 1 After reviewing John 1:19-51, read John 20:10-16, 26-29. In John 1:39 Jesus invites his disciples to come and see. By the end of the gospel, they have seen enough. Where does Jesus say we find blessing? Like Mary, “Who are you looking for?”
Bethel Lutheran Church, St. Paul, MN – bethelstpaul.com