27 even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.” 28 These things took place in Bethany across the Jordan, where John was baptizing.
1:27
even he who comes after me,
The one coming after John the Baptist was Christ the Messiah (Jn 1:15). The phrase “even he who comes after me” modifies the “one you do not know” (v. 26).
the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.”
Untying a sandal for someone else was the job of a slave, a menial job. John placed himself at the lowest level when he compared himself to Christ. John continued the theme of the preeminence of the Messiah.
1:28
These things took place in Bethany across the Jordan,
The Bethany here is different from the one near Jerusalem. People had come a long way to hear John the Baptist.
where John was baptizing.
The Greek indicates that John was engaged in baptizing on an ongoing basis.
PRINCIPLE:
It takes humility to serve the Lord.
APPLICATION:
John did not regard himself worthy of the Lord; he viewed himself a slave in comparison to Christ. He understood the significance of who Jesus was. He knew Christ was God in the flesh. He could only offer humble service to the Lord. This should be how we approach ministry. It is our task to offer humble service to the Lord.
Our deference to the Lord brings out His glory. Jesus was no ordinary person; He was God who stepped foot in flesh. Jesus stands in our culture unknown, unsung. Cultural concerns have buried this wonderful person. Most do not have eyes to see Him. Spiritual slumber is prevalent in our day. Jesus is near but people do not care.
