The Witness Of John The Baptist

Stephen emphasizes the profound significance of John the Baptist's role as a witness to Christ, highlighting his humility and clarity in declaring his identity. John’s testimony was threefold: he identified Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, as the baptizer with the Holy Spirit, and as the bridegroom. Stephen underscores that John’s self-awareness was rooted in knowing what he was not—he was not the Christ, Elijah, or a prophet—but he was a voice in the wilderness, sent to prepare the way for the Lord. This humility and recognition of limitations exemplify the Christian attitude of knowing oneself in relation to Christ. Stephen also discusses the importance of true witnessing, which must be rooted in the message from God, not self-promotion. He highlights that the baptism with the Holy Spirit signifies unity in the body of Christ, transcending racial and social divisions, and emphasizes the church's ultimate purpose: to be built up as the bride of Christ, purified and prepared for eternity. Stephen concludes by urging believers to witness fully of Christ’s multifaceted work—His sacrifice as the Lamb, His baptism with the Holy Spirit, and His role as the bridegroom—so that they may be used by God to bring about His divine purpose.

Main Points Outline

• John the Baptist’s role as a humble, truthful witness to Christ’s identity

• His threefold testimony: Lamb of God, baptizer with the Holy Spirit, bridegroom

• The importance of knowing oneself’s limitations and being honest about who we are in Christ

• The necessity of a message from God for true witnessing, not self-promotion

• The significance of baptism with the Holy Spirit: uniting believers into one body

• The church’s purpose: to be the bride of Christ, purified and prepared for eternity

• Encouragement for believers to fully witness of Christ’s work in all His aspects