And they came unto John, and said to him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond the Jordan, to whom thou hast borne witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him.
A man can receive nothing except it be given him from heaven. Christ received His office and honor from God, not of Himself; so did John as His forerunner. Since the superior office and usefulness of one above the other proceed from God's sovereign will, there is no room for complaint, murmuring, and envy.
AI summary
These disciples came with complaint, envious and jealous at Jesus' success, fearing their master would lose his popularity and influence. Many love their sect more than Christ, and would rather a man become a Presbyterian or Baptist than a sincere Christian. True piety rejoices that sinners turn to Christ, whatever denomination they follow.
AI summary
JESUS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD OF THE BAPTIST--HIS NOBLE TESTIMONY TO HIS MASTER. (John 3:22-36) land of Judea--the rural parts of that province, the foregoing conversation being held in the capital. baptized--in the sense explained in Joh 4:2.
Commenting on John 3:22-36