One day early in his ministry, when John saw Jesus coming toward him, he declared, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John bore witness to the authenticity of Jesus as God’s chosen Messiah, for God had told him that the one you see the Spirit descend upon and remain, he will be the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit. John testified, “And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.” Jesus is the Paschal sacrifice of God, the lamb offered to God to make atonement for the sins of the people.

God told John that the one upon whom the Spirit descended and rested would be the one who would baptize with the Holy Spirit. This is not only a confirmation for John, but a promise for us. If we are in Christ, we have the Holy Spirit. God himself dwells in us. Brothers and sisters, let us walk by the Spirit and so truly represent Christ.

Spirit of God, teach us to keep in step with you, that we might truly bear fruit in the world to the glory of God.

Jesus’ whole life was a ministry to others, designed to serve (diakonēsai) their needs. But ultimately his service to them meant offering himself in death, in perfect obedience to the will of his Father, as a payment for their sins. Although the language of worship is not specifically used in this context, the notion of Jesus’ death as an atoning sacrifice is close at hand.

~ David G. Peterson, Engaging with God: A Biblical Theology of Worship. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1992. p. 119.

Let God Arise! Seasonal Focus
Behold the Lamb of God, John 1.29-42

Book Reading
Peterson, Engaging with God