“There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light.” (John 1:6-8)
John’s gospel recounts certain events and miracles as witnesses and signs that Jesus is the Word of God Incarnate. John’s purpose is to convince his readers that Jesus is who He says He is. Not all would agree, particularly the rulers of the Jews who are referenced here. They were the ones who held religious authority and administered the Law of Moses. The questioned John the Baptist who was one of the first witnesses to the Messiah’s coming and ministry. They wanted to know who He was, possibly to control or use him or even to silence him. These leaders claimed to walk in the light while they were dwelling in spiritual darkness. John the Baptist pointed this out to them out by calling for repentance from sin. but they didn’t get it. They claimed they were religious Jews, not sinners.
The call for repentance goes out today as always. The time is now for all people to take spiritual inventory and realize they need the mercy and help of God. All men (and women and children) are sinners, all are morally and spiritually bankrupt. Yet most people today live in darkness. While many these days are accusing others of grave sins, many fail to look at themselves. Many deny their sins outright or cover them over or redefine sin as righteousness. Many Christians behave the same way. Many of us are quick to accuse but slow to repent. The good news is that when we do admit our sin, when we do ask God for forgiveness, it is granted. And, in addition, the Holy Spirit enables us to look at all others with compassion love and mercy. We, though unworthy, have been forgiven. We should tell all people of this same great blessing.