John 1:23
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I am the voice of one crying - See the notes on Mat 3:3; Mar 1:4, Mar 1:5.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And he said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness,.... These words are cited by the other evangelists, and applied to John the Baptist; but then they are only to be considered as their citation, and as an application of them to him by them: but here they are used by John himself, who both expresses them, and interprets them of himself; and in which he was undoubtedly under the infallible direction of the blessed Spirit; and which confirms the sense of the evangelists, who apply the words to him. The Jews give a different interpretation of the words; though one of their celebrated commentators (u) owns, that the comforts spoken of in the preceding verses are what will be in the days of the King Messiah: one of them (w) interprets, "the voice", of the Holy Ghost; and so far it may be true, as John was filled with the Holy Ghost, and he spake by him in his ministry: and another (x), of the resurrection of the dead, or the voice that will be heard then, which will be the voice of the archangel: though another of (y) them better explains it by, , "they are they that bring glad tidings", or good news; such are Gospel preachers; only it should have been in the singular number: for the text speaks but of one voice; of one person crying; and of John the Baptist, who brought the good news, and glad tidings, that the Messiah was coming, yea, that he was already come, and that the kingdom of heaven was at hand. The Hebrew writers generally understand the passage, of the return of the Jews from the Babylonish captivity, and of removing all obstructions in their way to Jerusalem; to which sense the Targum on the place inclines, which paraphrases it thus, "the voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, prepare the way before the people of the Lord, make in the plain, paths before the congregation of our God: but not the people of the Lord, but the Lord himself, and not the congregation of God, but God himself is intended; whose ways were to be prepared, and made plain, even the King Messiah; which was to be done, and was done by his forerunner John the Baptist, who, with great modesty, expresses himself in the language of this Scripture, as being a prophecy of him: he was a "voice", but not a mere voice; nor was his ministry a mere voice of words, as the law was, but it was the sweet voice of the Gospel, proclaiming the coming of the Messiah; encouraging men to believe in him; calling them to evangelical repentance, and publishing remission of sins in the name of Christ, and pointing him out as the Lamb of God, which takes away the sin of the world: this voice was "crying"; it was not a still small voice, it was a very loud one; John lifted up his voice like a trumpet; he delivered himself with great zeal and fervency; and it was "in the wilderness" where this voice was heard, in the wilderness of Judea, as in Mat 3:1 where Jesus came preaching; the Ethiopic version renders the words, "I am the voice of one that goes about in the wilderness"; that is, in the several towns and villages which were in the wilderness, to whom John went and preached the Gospel: the Persic version reads, "I am the voice and cry which cometh out of the wilderness"; referring to the place where he was before he entered on his public ministry, and from whence he came; for he was in the deserts till the day of his showing unto Israel, Luk 1:80. The words this voice cried were, make straight the way of the Lord; he called upon persons to reform their ways, and walk in the way of the Lord, to repent of their sins, believe in Christ, and submit to the ordinance of baptism: the Ethiopic version reads, "the way of God"; and such was the person he came to prepare the way for, even the Son of God, and who is truly and properly God, as said the prophet Esaias, in Isa 40:3. (u) Kimchi in Isa. xl. 1. (w) Jarchi in Isa xl. 3. (x) Zohar in Gen. fol. 70. 4. (y) Aben Ezra in Isa. ib.
John 1:23
The Mission of John the Baptist
22So they said to him, “Who are you? We need an answer for those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” 23John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet: “I am a voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Paul Washer in Romania
By Paul Washer1.6K1:07:11PSA 119:105JHN 1:23ACT 2:381TI 4:1REV 3:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of God's Spirit in saving individuals through the preaching of the gospel. The sermon highlights the process of salvation, where individuals become aware of their sin and the holiness of God, leading to a crisis and a realization that their own goodness cannot save them. They then place their faith in Jesus Christ, who becomes their life. The preacher also discusses the importance of understanding the true message of the gospel, emphasizing that it is not just a brief introduction to Christianity but the very essence of Christianity itself. The sermon also addresses theological concerns raised by the movie "The Passion" and emphasizes the significance of Christ's sacrifice on the cross as the ultimate payment for sin.
John the Baptist's Introduction of Jesus as the Sin Bearer
By Ron Bailey1.3K41:29Sin BearerLUK 3:16JHN 1:19JHN 1:23JHN 1:29JHN 1:31JHN 1:34In this sermon, John is described as a voice crying in the wilderness, preparing the way for God. The analogy is made to the preparations made for a king's visit, where mountains are leveled and valleys filled to ensure a clear view of the king's procession. John's role is to make sure people have a clear view of the coming king, Jesus. Jesus is introduced as the Lamb of God who takes away the world's sin, which is his chief characteristic. The sermon emphasizes that Jesus' purpose is to take away sin and reconcile people with God, and that he accomplished this through his death on the cross.
John the Baptist
By Will Graham1.1K56:36John The BaptistEZK 36:15EZK 36:30MAT 3:1MAT 6:33MRK 1:4LUK 1:5JHN 1:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being obedient to God. He highlights the example of John the Baptist, who preached in the wilderness without any social life or security. The speaker challenges the notion of hard ground for preaching and encourages listeners to study John's preaching tactics. He emphasizes the need for men and women who have heard from God and are willing to boldly preach the gospel, regardless of the consequences. The message of John the Baptist was centered on repentance and preparing the way for the coming of Christ. The speaker also shares a personal experience where he was asked to compromise his preaching against prayerlessness and pastors who don't seek God, but he refused to do so. He concludes by referencing the story of John Bunyan, who was imprisoned for preaching the gospel and declared that he would continue to preach even if he was released or sent back to prison.
Revival Men: Leonard Ravenhill
By E.A. Johnston99019:08Revival MenPSA 42:1ISA 61:10MAT 6:33JHN 1:23ACT 1:8EPH 3:8PHP 3:13The sermon transcript describes the powerful speaking abilities of a preacher named Leonard Ravenhill. The transcript includes an illustration of a visit to a woman's cluttered and dirty house, highlighting Ravenhill's ability to captivate listeners with vivid descriptions. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of being close to God and having a strong prayer life. Ravenhill's passion for God and his desire for a genuine demonstration of the power of the gospel are highlighted. The transcript concludes with a personal anecdote describing Ravenhill as a frail old man who exuded a powerful presence.
I Am the Way #2
By Stephen Kaung9651:19:49Jesus ChristISA 40:3MAT 6:33MAT 7:13LUK 3:4JHN 1:23ROM 8:17PHP 2:1In this sermon, the speaker explores the nature of the way of Christ. He poses questions about whether it is a broad or narrow way, an easy or difficult way, and a long or short way. The speaker suggests that the way of Christ is the path to eternal life and fullness of God's wisdom. He references Philippians 2 and Matthew 7 to support his points. The sermon also mentions the role of John the Baptist in preparing the way for the Lord Jesus.
Mid South Conference 1981-03 the People of Israel
By Aldy Fam Fanous93938:32IsraelMAT 11:28JHN 1:231CO 15:552CO 3:18EPH 1:142TH 2:131JN 3:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that believers are called to obtain the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ. He compares the temporary joy people experience when winning money to the eternal glory that believers are called to obtain. The speaker also mentions the positive reception of their broadcast throughout the Arab world, with millions of people listening to each program. He highlights the importance of spending time in fellowship with the Lord to show His glory both in the present and in the future. The speaker also briefly discusses the concept of being created in God's image, using the analogy of looking at oneself in a mirror.
The Life and Times of Isaiah
By Steve Gallagher82747:40IsaiahISA 40:3ISA 41:3ISA 42:1ISA 52:7ISA 53:1ISA 53:4ISA 53:7ISA 61:1ISA 65:1MAT 3:3MAT 8:17MAT 12:17MRK 1:2LUK 3:4LUK 4:17JHN 1:23JHN 12:38ACT 8:28ROM 10:15ROM 10:20In this sermon, the speaker discusses the book of Isaiah and its structure. The book is divided into several sections, each with a different focus. The first section denounces Judah, while the second section denounces other nations. The third section, known as Isaiah's Apocalypse, is a fascinating part of the scripture. The speaker also mentions that the book is chronological, starting from chapter one and progressing through the events in order.
The Appearing of Resurrection and the Giving of Power
By Newman Sze8201:22:11MAT 28:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 24:44JHN 20:19JHN 21:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the 40 days that Jesus spent on earth after His resurrection. He explains that during this time, Jesus trained His disciples to shift their focus from external things to internal revelation, from the flesh to the Holy Spirit, and from the law to life. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a turbulent airplane ride to illustrate the need for Christians to rise above fear and rely on the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging the audience to prioritize their personal encounter with the Lord and the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
(Luke) 30 - Missions-Luke10
By Ed Miller74952:45MAT 6:33LUK 10:1LUK 10:16LUK 10:25JHN 1:23In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Luke chapter 10 and highlights the theme of missions. He emphasizes that Jesus is the ultimate missionary and that all ministry is based on Him. The speaker discusses the sending out of the 70 disciples and the importance of relying on God to do the real work in people's hearts. He also mentions the parable of the Good Samaritan and the story of Mary and Martha in Bethany, relating them to the concept of mission. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the need for laborers in the harvest and the role of God in mission work.
The Messenger
By William Carrol67839:422SA 12:25DAN 10:21DAN 11:19MAL 3:1JHN 1:23GAL 1:82TI 3:16In this sermon, the preacher begins by describing a vision that the prophet Daniel had. Daniel sees a majestic messenger, clothed in linen and with a golden belt. The preacher draws a parallel between this unique and majestic messenger and the Bible itself, emphasizing that the Bible is not an ordinary book but a holy book that takes us into another realm and allows us to hear from God. The preacher emphasizes the importance of preparing our hearts before reading the Bible and entering into communion with God. He also highlights the awe and reverence that should accompany our interaction with the Word of God, as it is a source of divine wisdom and guidance.
The Strength in a Father's Heart
By Carter Conlon35238:03Christian LifeEXO 20:1MAL 4:1MAT 6:33JHN 1:23In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of a father's voice in bringing hope and life to seemingly hopeless situations. He refers to a story in the Bible where Jesus speaks into a situation of death and commands a young man to arise. The preacher also highlights the importance of fathers turning their hearts towards their children and vice versa, as a remedy to the godlessness and sin that threatens to destroy societies. The sermon concludes with a reminder to not forget the word of God, as it is the source of strength and guidance in the face of fear and challenges.
Gospel of John (Study 4 of 24, Chap 1 Cont)
By G.W. North10947:18Christian LifeMAT 5:21MAT 5:43MAT 19:16JHN 1:23JHN 1:29HEB 10:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the true nature of God the Father. He explains that Jesus, as the only begotten Son, came from the bosom of the Father to reveal Him to mankind. The preacher highlights that Jesus' purpose was not just to die for our sins, but to lead forth the Father and show Him plainly to us. He also emphasizes the need for believers to be filled with the Holy Spirit and to have a personal relationship with God before relying solely on scholarship or human understanding.
Forerunner Ministry: Friends of the Bridegroom
By Mike Bickle251:01:37Forerunner MinistrySpiritual PreparationISA 40:3JER 12:5MAT 11:11JHN 1:23REV 7:9Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of the forerunner ministry in preparing believers for the return of the Lord, drawing from Isaiah 40, which prophesies a voice crying in the wilderness to prepare the way for God. He explains that forerunners are called to help people respond rightly to both unprecedented revival and judgment, which will occur in the end times. Bickle encourages the church to strengthen their spiritual identity and focus, as many will be called to this ministry of mercy to guide others through the coming challenges. He highlights the importance of deep preparation and understanding of God's word to effectively communicate His message in a time of confusion and fear. Ultimately, the forerunner ministry is about making clear the heart of God and connecting people to Him as the bridegroom.
Forerunners Proclaiming the Coming of Jesus
By Mike Bickle1455:28Preparation for Christ's ReturnForerunnersISA 40:3MAL 3:1MAT 24:14LUK 1:76JHN 1:23ROM 10:14Mike Bickle emphasizes the vital role of forerunners in proclaiming the coming of Jesus, urging believers to prepare themselves and others for His return. He challenges listeners to critically engage with biblical teachings, ensuring they align with Scripture. Bickle believes that many in the audience may have a calling to be forerunners, tasked with sharing prophetic insights about the end times. He highlights the importance of prayer, fasting, and living a holy life as foundational commitments for those who wish to fulfill this calling. Ultimately, he encourages everyone to actively pursue their relationship with God and to share that journey with others.
A Voice - a Mirror - and a Step of Faith
By David Wilkerson0FaithHumilityJHN 1:23JHN 3:30ACT 7:55David Wilkerson emphasizes three essential truths of true Christianity through the lives of John the Baptist, Stephen, and Peter. John exemplifies the humble service of being 'just a voice' for Christ, Stephen mirrors the glory of God through his steadfast faith, and Peter demonstrates the importance of taking bold steps of faith amidst trials. Each of these figures serves as a model for believers, encouraging them to focus on Christ, reflect His glory, and actively pursue Him in faith. Wilkerson calls for a return to humility and devotion, urging Christians to be voices of hope in a troubled world.
Great in God's Sight
By J.R. Miller0True GreatnessPotential in Christ1SA 16:7MAT 5:19MAT 11:11LUK 3:3JHN 1:23JHN 3:30ROM 8:172CO 5:17EPH 2:10PHP 1:6J.R. Miller emphasizes the true greatness of John the Baptist as seen through the eyes of Christ, who declared him the greatest born of women. He contrasts human perceptions of greatness with God's view, highlighting that true worth lies in spiritual qualities and moral strength rather than outward appearances. John’s life exemplified courage, self-forgetfulness, and a commitment to truth, even at the cost of his life. Miller encourages believers to recognize their potential in Christ, suggesting that the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than John, as they share in the divine blessings and possibilities of life in Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a reflection on how we appear to God and the greatness we can achieve through obedience to His Word.
The Cry of the Spirit
By Smith Wigglesworth0RepentanceThe Role of the Holy SpiritISA 40:3MAT 3:4MAT 11:18MAT 14:3LUK 1:15LUK 3:2LUK 3:5JHN 1:23JHN 1:36HEB 12:13Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the profound impact of John the Baptist's ministry, highlighting how his humble beginnings and the 'cry of the Spirit' resonated deeply with the people. Despite his austere lifestyle, John's message of repentance and preparation for the Messiah stirred the hearts of many, leading them to confess their sins and seek baptism. Wigglesworth illustrates that John's extraordinary calling was rooted in his intimate relationship with God, which empowered him to bear the burden of the people's sins. The sermon calls for believers to embrace their own 'cry' and allow the Holy Spirit to work through them to reach others. Ultimately, it is a reminder that even in solitude, one can find purpose and be a vessel for God's message.
Meet John the Baptiser
By Victor Maxwell0ISA 40:3MAL 3:1MAT 3:8LUK 3:1LUK 3:16JHN 1:23JHN 3:30REV 5:5Victor Maxwell preaches about the lives of Girolamo Savonarola and John the Baptist, both men sent from God to speak out against corruption and immorality in their respective times. Despite facing persecution and martyrdom, they remained steadfast in their mission, paving the way for spiritual renewal and pointing people towards God. John the Baptist, a voice in the wilderness, preached with authority and humility, preparing the hearts of many for the coming Messiah. His radical, practical, and eschatological message challenged people to repent and bear fruits of righteousness.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I am the voice of one crying - See the notes on Mat 3:3; Mar 1:4, Mar 1:5.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And he said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness,.... These words are cited by the other evangelists, and applied to John the Baptist; but then they are only to be considered as their citation, and as an application of them to him by them: but here they are used by John himself, who both expresses them, and interprets them of himself; and in which he was undoubtedly under the infallible direction of the blessed Spirit; and which confirms the sense of the evangelists, who apply the words to him. The Jews give a different interpretation of the words; though one of their celebrated commentators (u) owns, that the comforts spoken of in the preceding verses are what will be in the days of the King Messiah: one of them (w) interprets, "the voice", of the Holy Ghost; and so far it may be true, as John was filled with the Holy Ghost, and he spake by him in his ministry: and another (x), of the resurrection of the dead, or the voice that will be heard then, which will be the voice of the archangel: though another of (y) them better explains it by, , "they are they that bring glad tidings", or good news; such are Gospel preachers; only it should have been in the singular number: for the text speaks but of one voice; of one person crying; and of John the Baptist, who brought the good news, and glad tidings, that the Messiah was coming, yea, that he was already come, and that the kingdom of heaven was at hand. The Hebrew writers generally understand the passage, of the return of the Jews from the Babylonish captivity, and of removing all obstructions in their way to Jerusalem; to which sense the Targum on the place inclines, which paraphrases it thus, "the voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, prepare the way before the people of the Lord, make in the plain, paths before the congregation of our God: but not the people of the Lord, but the Lord himself, and not the congregation of God, but God himself is intended; whose ways were to be prepared, and made plain, even the King Messiah; which was to be done, and was done by his forerunner John the Baptist, who, with great modesty, expresses himself in the language of this Scripture, as being a prophecy of him: he was a "voice", but not a mere voice; nor was his ministry a mere voice of words, as the law was, but it was the sweet voice of the Gospel, proclaiming the coming of the Messiah; encouraging men to believe in him; calling them to evangelical repentance, and publishing remission of sins in the name of Christ, and pointing him out as the Lamb of God, which takes away the sin of the world: this voice was "crying"; it was not a still small voice, it was a very loud one; John lifted up his voice like a trumpet; he delivered himself with great zeal and fervency; and it was "in the wilderness" where this voice was heard, in the wilderness of Judea, as in Mat 3:1 where Jesus came preaching; the Ethiopic version renders the words, "I am the voice of one that goes about in the wilderness"; that is, in the several towns and villages which were in the wilderness, to whom John went and preached the Gospel: the Persic version reads, "I am the voice and cry which cometh out of the wilderness"; referring to the place where he was before he entered on his public ministry, and from whence he came; for he was in the deserts till the day of his showing unto Israel, Luk 1:80. The words this voice cried were, make straight the way of the Lord; he called upon persons to reform their ways, and walk in the way of the Lord, to repent of their sins, believe in Christ, and submit to the ordinance of baptism: the Ethiopic version reads, "the way of God"; and such was the person he came to prepare the way for, even the Son of God, and who is truly and properly God, as said the prophet Esaias, in Isa 40:3. (u) Kimchi in Isa. xl. 1. (w) Jarchi in Isa xl. 3. (x) Zohar in Gen. fol. 70. 4. (y) Aben Ezra in Isa. ib.