John 1:25 (CEV)
They asked John, “Why do you baptize people if you are not the Messiah or Elijah or
the Prophet?”
What Does This Text Say?
In John 1:25, the questioners ask John the Baptist another question. They do not
understand what he is doing. In their view, baptizing people belongs only to someone
with an official title, such as the Messiah or a great prophet. John does not fit their
picture, and that raises questions.
This is recognizable. Even today, people ask: Why do you do this? Who gave you the
right to do that? John shows that you do not always have to meet other people’s
expectations. He does what he does because he knows he is called by God, not
because it makes sense to everyone.
This text is encouraging. You do not have to explain everything or be approved by
everyone. When you act out of conviction and faith, you are allowed to stand firm in
that.
In the church, this may mean that someone asks why you are committed in a certain
way. Perhaps you choose renewal, or just simplicity. That can raise questions. Still,
you may remain faithful to what you believe is right and good.
You also see this in society. Think of someone who does volunteer work without
expecting anything in return. Or someone who makes choices that go against the
norm. Not everyone will understand that—and that is okay.
A Question to Reflect On
• Why do I do what I do?
• Am I guided by the expectations of others, or by my conviction?
Closing Thought
John the Baptist shows that obedience is more important than approval. God sees the
heart behind your actions.
Take This With You
• You do not have to fit into a box
• Conviction can be stronger than opinion
• God uses people who do what He asks
To Close
John 1:25 invites us to live with conviction. Those who live from their calling may trust
that God blesses their path. That makes this message worth sharing.