John 5:35 – “John was a lamp that burned and gave light, and you chose for a time to enjoy his light.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Jesus is speaking about John the Baptist and his role as a witness to the truth. Jesus describes John as a lamp that burned and gave light, which means John was not the source of light himself, but rather someone who pointed others to the true light—Jesus Christ.

Jesus also makes an important observation: the people enjoyed John’s light for a time. The religious leaders and crowds were fascinated by John’s preaching, and many came to hear him. Some were even baptized by him (Matthew 3:5-6). However, their interest was temporary. When John’s message pointed to Jesus, many of these same people turned away.

This verse reveals a sad reality—many people enjoy hearing truth for a while, but they do not let it change their hearts. They may admire a messenger of God, but they fail to follow through in real faith.

Historical Context

John the Baptist had a powerful impact on Jewish society. He was seen as a prophet, and many believed he was sent by God. Even the religious leaders came to hear him, though they did not all accept his message (Luke 7:30).

John’s ministry was centered on calling people to repentance and preparing the way for Jesus (Mark 1:2-4). He was bold, calling out sin even among the powerful, which eventually led to his arrest and execution by King Herod (Matthew 14:3-10).

Jesus refers to John as a lamp, which is different from the true Light. This connects with John 1:6-9, where it says that John was not the Light but came to bear witness to the Light.

Many people were excited about John’s ministry, but their enthusiasm faded when it required real commitment. This is a warning to those who listen to the Gospel but do not truly follow Jesus.

Theological Implications

1. John the Baptist Was a Witness, Not the Source of Light – Just like a lamp reflects light but is not the sun itself, John pointed people to Jesus but was not the Savior.
2. Many People Like Truth, But Only for a Time – The crowds enjoyed John’s preaching, but when Jesus came, they rejected Him. The same is true today—many people admire Jesus’ teachings but do not fully commit to following Him.
3. True Light Comes from Jesus, Not Human Messengers – John played an important role, but the real source of truth and life is Jesus alone.
4. Spiritual Interest is Not the Same as Saving Faith – Being interested in God for a season is not enough. True faith requires commitment and transformation.

Literary Analysis

John’s Gospel frequently contrasts light and darkness:

• Jesus is the true light (John 1:9).
• John was a lamp that pointed to the light (John 5:35).
• Many people preferred darkness rather than light (John 3:19).

The phrase “for a time” is key in this verse. It shows that their interest in John’s message was temporary, much like how some people today are interested in Jesus when it is convenient but turn away when following Him requires sacrifice.

The image of a lamp burning suggests both illumination and sacrifice. A lamp burns fuel to give light, just as John’s life and ministry were spent for God’s purposes.

Biblical Cross-References

• John 1:6-9 – John was not the light but came to testify about the true light.
• Matthew 11:11 – Jesus praises John as the greatest prophet.
• Luke 7:24-28 – Jesus describes John as a prophet who prepared the way for Him.
• Matthew 3:1-6 – John preaches repentance and baptizes people in preparation for Jesus.
• John 3:30 – John says, “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. Don’t Just Enjoy Truth—Follow It – Many people like hearing good preaching or reading the Bible, but real faith means living by it.
2. Recognize That True Light Comes from Jesus – Pastors, teachers, and mentors can help us grow, but our ultimate focus should be Christ alone.
3. Spiritual Fire Must Be More Than Temporary Enthusiasm – Faith should not be just a season of excitement but a lifelong commitment.
4. Be a Lamp for Others – Like John, we are called to reflect Christ’s light so that others can see the truth.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is shown in the fact that He sent John to prepare people’s hearts for Jesus. He did not leave people in darkness but provided a clear messenger to lead them to the Light.

• God gives people opportunities to respond – John’s ministry was an invitation to prepare for Christ.
• God desires lasting faith, not just temporary excitement – He calls people to true discipleship, not just momentary interest.
• God is patient – Even when people enjoy the truth only “for a time,” He still offers them the chance to truly follow Him.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

John the Baptist was a lamp, but Jesus is the true Light. This distinction is important:

• John pointed to Jesus, but Jesus is the one who gives life and salvation.
• John’s ministry was temporary, but Jesus’ kingdom is eternal.
• John called people to repentance, but Jesus gives forgiveness and new life.
• John 8:12 – Jesus says, “I am the light of the world.”
• John 3:19-21 – Jesus talks about how people respond to the light.
• Revelation 21:23 – In heaven, Jesus Himself is the light.

Jesus is not just another prophet or teacher—He is the source of life and truth.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think people were drawn to John the Baptist’s message at first?
2. What does it mean that John was a lamp but Jesus is the true light?
3. Have you ever been excited about spiritual things for a time but then lost interest? How can we keep our faith strong?
4. What are ways we can be a lamp for others, like John was?
5. How does this verse challenge us to move beyond temporary enthusiasm and into a real commitment to Christ?

This verse is a reminder that true faith is not just a passing interest—it is a lifelong commitment to following Jesus. The question is: Are we only enjoying the light for a time, or are we truly walking in it?