Behold the Lamb of God

the True Identity: The Witness of John

Bible Passage: John 1:19-34

Summary: In this passage, John the Baptist encounters a delegation sent by the religious leaders to interrogate him about his identity. His responses showcase his understanding that he is not the Messiah, but rather the forerunner who prepares the way for Jesus. This story highlights the importance of divine revelation and the joy of recognizing who Jesus truly is through humility and authenticity.

Application: This sermon can encourage teens to seek a personal understanding of Christ's identity rather than relying solely on what others say. They can learn that their own relationship with Christ can empower them to witness effectively to their friends, promoting a culture of honesty and openness about faith.

Teaching: The teaching focus can revolve around the idea that witnessing is not about self-promotion but about glorifying Christ. John models how to step back and let Jesus shine, showing that true witness comes from understanding our place in God's story and pointing others to Him.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the larger narrative of Scripture, Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation, the coming King, and the ultimate sacrifice for sin. John’s role as the witness ties closely with prophetic tradition, illustrating the continuity of God’s plan through generations.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, delve into the theological implications of John’s testimony and examine how his role as a witness foreshadows the eventual ministry of Christ. It might be beneficial to compare John’s self-awareness with other biblical figures who struggled with their identities. Utilize your Logos library to review scholarly articles that focus on the cultural significance of John's response to the religious leaders' questions of his identity.

Main Idea

: True witness requires a clear understanding of who we are in relation to Christ, challenging us to prioritize His glory over our own.

Because ultimately it is who Jesus is and WHAT he did on the cross that leads to salvation

1. Understanding Your Identity

John 1:19-28

You could explore how John the Baptist, when questioned about his identity, consistently denies being the Messiah or Elijah, emphasizing his role as simply a voice pointing to Christ. John's humility and clear understanding of his own identity serve as powerful examples of how teens today can navigate societal pressures to be someone they're not. Perhaps you could encourage teens to embrace who they truly are in Christ, fostering authentic relationships and genuine expressions of faith among their peers.

2. Pointing to the Savior

John 1:29-34

Maybe focus on how John the Baptist's recognition of Jesus as the Lamb of God illustrates the ultimate purpose of a true witness: to point others to the authentic Savior. When John shares how he saw the Spirit descend on Jesus, it underlines the divine revelation that comes from a close walk with God. Perhaps you can inspire teens to cultivate such a relationship with Christ; one that equips them to confidently proclaim His divine nature to others, promoting deeper conversations about faith and purpose.