John 1:24-28

John 1:24-28:

In these verses, a delegation of Pharisees questions John the Baptist about his authority to baptize, given that he has already denied being the Christ, Elijah, or the Prophet. 

John responds that he baptizes only with water as a symbol of repentance, but among them stands One they do not recognize—the coming Messiah, whose sandal strap John is unworthy to untie. 

This exchange takes place in Bethany (or Bethabara) beyond the Jordan River, where John was conducting his ministry.

Matthew Henry, reflects on these verses in his concise commentary: “He baptized the people with water as a profession of repentance, and as an outward sign of the spiritual blessings to be conferred on them by the Messiah, who was in the midst of them, though they knew him not, and to whom he was unworthy to render the meanest service.” 

Reflection:

These verses highlight John the Baptist’s humility and focus on Christ, modeling how Christians are called to live—not seeking personal glory but pointing others to Jesus as the true source of salvation and transformation. 

In daily life, this means embracing repentance as an ongoing posture, recognizing our own unworthiness apart from Christ, and serving in ways that prepare hearts for His work, whether through evangelism, discipleship, or simple acts of witness that exalt Him above ourselves.