John 3:29
Verse
Context
John’s Testimony about Jesus
28You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Christ, but am sent ahead of Him.’29The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom stands and listens for him, and is overjoyed to hear the bridegroom’s voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete.30He must increase; I must decrease.
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
He that hath the bride - The congregation of believers. Is the bridegroom - The Lord Jesus - the Head of the Church. See Mat 22:2, etc., where the parable of the marriage feast is explained. The friend of the bridegroom - The person whom the Greeks called the paranymph - there were two at each wedding: one waited on the bride, the other on the bridegroom: their business was to serve them, to inspect the concerns of the bridechamber, and afterwards to reconcile differences between husband and wife, when any took place. John considers himself as standing in this relation to the Lord Jesus, while espousing human nature, and converting souls to himself: this is the meaning of standeth by, i.e. ready to serve. See the observations at the end of the chapter.
John Gill Bible Commentary
He must increase,.... Not in stature of body, or in wisdom and understanding of mind, as man, he being come to maturity in these things already; but in fame, credit, and reputation among men; as he afterwards did in the land of Judea, by reason of his miracles and doctrines; and after that among the Gentiles, through the publication of his Gospel; and will more and more in the latter day, when he, and he alone, shall be exalted: and he must increase in the ministry of his word, which was published by him, and his disciples, throughout all the cities of Israel; and which, after his resurrection and ascension, grew and increased mightily, notwithstanding the opposition made unto it both by their civil and ecclesiastical rulers; and which, by the means of his apostles, was spread throughout the Gentile world, and will hereafter cover the earth, as the waters do the sea: and also in his kingdom and interest, which at first were very small, like a grain of mustard seed, or like a little stone cut out of the mountain without hands; but in process of time grew exceedingly, and will, ere long, till the face of the whole earth; for the kingdoms of this world will become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and his dominion shall be from sea to sea, and from the river to the ends of the earth; and of the increase of it there shall be no end. And so likewise in the number of his followers, which at first were but few in Judea, but afterwards greatly increased, and especially among the Gentiles; and will be very numerous in the latter day glory, when the nation of the Jews will be born at once, and the fulness and forces of the Gentiles are brought in: but I must decrease; as he did in his esteem among the people; see Joh 5:3; and in his work and office, which were now come to an end, Christ, whose forerunner he was, being come; and quickly after this he was put into prison, and there put to death.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:29 John the Baptist saw Jesus as the bridegroom and himself as the bridegroom’s friend. His response deflected glory from himself and elevated Jesus’ stature.
John 3:29
John’s Testimony about Jesus
28You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Christ, but am sent ahead of Him.’29The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom stands and listens for him, and is overjoyed to hear the bridegroom’s voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete.30He must increase; I must decrease.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Beloved's Bride
By Randy Jones1.1K44:13BelovedPSA 91:1MAT 3:17JHN 1:29JHN 3:29REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the Father's delight in His Son and how this love relationship between the Father and the Son extends to believers. The preacher emphasizes that God manifested Himself in the flesh through Jesus Christ and deposited all His glory and wonders in His Son. The sermon also highlights the importance of being prepared and ready for the bridegroom, Jesus Christ. The preacher uses the story of Rebecca and Isaac to illustrate the willingness and commitment required to follow Jesus, even if it means riding camels.
Gospel of John (Study 9 of 24, Chap 3 Cont)
By G.W. North11452:16Christian LifeISA 51:1MAT 6:33JHN 3:29JHN 3:36EPH 3:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeing and experiencing the love of God in our lives. He warns about the consequences of not recognizing this love, which is ultimately the wrath of God. The preacher then introduces the story of Jesus and the woman at the well as an example of how we can be a source of spiritual refreshment for others. He encourages the audience to fully surrender to God and to immerse themselves in His Word, rejecting laziness and relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance.
Introducing the Bridegroom God in the Nt
By Mike Bickle5558:46Bridegroom GodBridegroom LoveIntimacy with ChristISA 54:5JER 31:32EZK 16:8HOS 2:19JOL 2:28MAL 4:5MAT 11:11LUK 1:17JHN 3:29REV 19:7Mike Bickle introduces the concept of the Bridegroom God in the New Testament, emphasizing John the Baptist's declaration of Jesus as the Bridegroom and the implications of this revelation for believers. He explains how John viewed his role as a friend of the Bridegroom, focusing on preparing others to receive the love of Christ. Bickle highlights the importance of understanding God as a passionate lover, which transforms our identity and purpose. He encourages believers to pursue intimacy with God, which leads to a deeper understanding of their own worth and calling. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a generation to embrace the Bridegroom revelation and live as forerunners in preparation for Christ's return.
Friends of the Bridegroom (Pt. 1)
By Michael Koulianos4552:35BridegroomHearing God's VoiceFriendship with GodGEN 5:24GEN 6:9EXO 33:11MAT 9:15JHN 3:29JHN 15:15ROM 6:23EPH 2:8JAS 2:23Michael Koulianos teaches on the concept of being a 'Friend of the Bridegroom,' emphasizing the importance of hearing God's voice and developing a deep friendship with Jesus. He highlights that while salvation is a free gift, true friendship with God requires trust and intimacy, which can be costly. Koulianos warns against the dangers of merely participating in religious activities without genuine connection to God, and he encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship characterized by obedience and humility. He draws parallels between biblical figures like Moses and Abraham, who were known as friends of God, and stresses the significance of living under God's authority and guidance.
Forerunners With the Bridal Paradigm
By Mike Bickle391:00:59ForerunnerIdentity in ChristIntimacy With GodPSA 27:4SNG 2:4MAT 22:2LUK 15:20JHN 3:29ROM 8:151CO 2:9EPH 5:251JN 3:1REV 3:20Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of understanding the 'Bridal Paradigm' in the context of the Kingdom of God, which invites believers into a deep, intimate relationship with Jesus as the Bridegroom. He explains that this perspective transcends gender and is about a position of privilege and closeness to God's heart, encouraging both men and women to embrace their identity as the Bride of Christ. Bickle shares personal experiences and biblical insights, particularly from the Song of Solomon, to illustrate the depth of God's desire for intimacy with His people. He highlights that true understanding of one's identity as the Bride comes from recognizing Jesus as a compassionate and loving Bridegroom, which transforms how believers see themselves and their relationship with God.
Overview of Nt Bridal Theology
By Mike Bickle3558:25Identity in ChristBridal TheologyBridegroom LoveISA 62:4HOS 2:16MAT 9:15MAT 22:1JHN 2:1JHN 3:29JHN 17:24EPH 5:25REV 19:7REV 22:17Mike Bickle presents an overview of New Testament Bridal Theology, emphasizing that Jesus' ministry begins and ends with the theme of the Bride of Christ. He highlights the significance of Jesus' first miracle at the wedding in Cana, illustrating His desire to enhance the wedding celebration and the ultimate union with His bride. Bickle explains that Jesus identifies Himself as the Bridegroom, revealing His deep emotional connection and desire for His people, culminating in His final prayer for the church to be with Him. The sermon underscores the importance of understanding our identity as the Bride of Christ and the call to love Him in return, as well as the Holy Spirit's role in awakening this love within us.
The Forerunner Message: Jesus as Bridegroom, King, and Judge
By Mike Bickle201:59:23Jesus as BridegroomThe Forerunner MessageDEU 6:5PSA 27:4SNG 8:6ISA 62:4ISA 63:1MAT 25:1JHN 3:29REV 2:17REV 3:12REV 19:12Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of understanding Jesus as the Bridegroom, King, and Judge in his sermon 'The Forerunner Message.' He reflects on the 15 years of prayer meetings that laid the foundation for the International House of Prayer (IHOP) and expresses a vision for the next 15 years, anticipating greater impact and challenges. Bickle shares personal encounters with God that shaped his understanding of the beauty of Jesus and the importance of the first commandment, urging the congregation to embrace a deeper relationship with Christ. He calls for a recommitment to the forerunner message, encouraging believers to stand firm in their faith amidst the complexities of the world.
The Church’s Marriage to Her Sons, and to Her God
By Jonathan Edwards0ISA 62:4MAT 22:2LUK 10:17JHN 3:29REV 19:6Jonathan Edwards preaches about the deep and profound love relationship between the church and Christ, likening it to a marriage where the church is the bride and Christ is the bridegroom. He emphasizes the great lengths Christ went to in order to obtain his bride, including becoming man and laying down his life for her. Edwards urges ministers to faithfully fulfill their role as stewards and ambassadors of Christ, leading the church in preparation for the glorious union with the bridegroom. He highlights the joy and honor bestowed upon ministers who are called to be part of this divine union and the eternal bliss they will share in the marriage-supper of the Lamb.
Reproduction Is Fruitfulness
By G.W. North0Spiritual ReproductionFruitfulnessGEN 1:28MAT 13:8LUK 8:8JHN 2:1JHN 3:29JHN 15:1ACT 2:41ROM 7:4GAL 5:22EPH 5:31G.W. North emphasizes the biblical principle of fruitfulness, illustrating how Jesus, as the Vine, desires His followers to bear fruit in abundance. He draws parallels between the teachings in John 15 and the parable of the Sower in Matthew 13, highlighting God's expectation for His people to reproduce spiritually. North explains that true fruitfulness involves not only personal growth in virtues but also the multiplication of believers, as exemplified by the events of Pentecost. He underscores the significance of the relationship between Christ and the Church, portraying the Church as the Bride and Christ as the Bridegroom, culminating in the miraculous transformation at the wedding in Cana. Ultimately, North conveys that God's intention is for His children to flourish and multiply in faith, reflecting the divine life within them.
Zion's Joy and God's
By Alexander Maclaren0Divine LoveJoy in GodNEH 8:10PSA 16:11PSA 30:5ISA 62:5ZEP 3:17JHN 3:29JHN 15:11ROM 15:13PHP 4:41PE 1:8Alexander Maclaren emphasizes the profound joy that exists between God and Zion, illustrating that Zion's rejoicing is a reflection of God's joy in her. He highlights the intimate fellowship between God and His people, where God's gladness is intertwined with their joy, and both are expressed through love and praise. Maclaren counters the misconception of a distant, joyless God by showcasing the vibrant, loving nature of God, who delights in His children and rejoices over them with singing. He encourages believers to embrace a religion of joy, rooted in the assurance of God's presence and love, which leads to a stable and perpetual joy in their lives. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a joyful response to God's love, reminding us that our joy is complete when we are in communion with Him.
Joy Is Unselfish
By D.L. Moody0Joy in ServiceThe Nature of True JoyNEH 8:10PSA 16:11JER 15:16MAT 28:19JHN 3:29ROM 15:13GAL 5:22PHP 4:4JAS 1:21JN 1:4D.L. Moody emphasizes that true joy transcends personal salvation and is found in the joy of leading others to Christ. He describes three types of joy, highlighting that the joy of seeing others saved is the highest honor and privilege. Moody contrasts happiness, which is dependent on circumstances, with a deeper, unshakeable joy that persists through trials and is rooted in obedience to God. He encourages believers to seek joy in the Word of God, which should inspire them to serve others and engage in Christian work. Ultimately, he asserts that genuine joy compels action and service in the vineyard of the Lord.
Better Than Pentecost
By David Wilkerson0Personal Relationship with ChristHearing God's Voice1KI 19:12PSA 46:10ISA 30:21JHN 3:29JHN 10:27ROM 10:17HEB 1:1HEB 3:7JAS 1:19REV 3:20David Wilkerson emphasizes that John the Baptist, despite not witnessing the events of Pentecost, found his greatest joy in hearing the voice of Jesus. He illustrates that true fulfillment comes not from miraculous signs but from a personal relationship with Christ, where His voice brings joy and direction. Wilkerson argues against the notion that God no longer speaks to individuals today, asserting that believers can still hear His voice if they are willing to listen. He encourages the congregation to remain open to God's communication, despite the potential for misuse of spiritual gifts. Ultimately, the joy of hearing Jesus' voice is presented as a profound and personal experience for every believer.
Exposition on Psalm 129
By St. Augustine0GEN 4:8PSA 128:1PSA 128:4MAT 11:17MAT 13:39MRK 12:42LUK 18:13LUK 19:2JHN 3:29St. Augustine preaches on the enduring nature of the Church throughout history, citing examples from Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and the people of Israel, emphasizing the Church's resilience against wickedness and persecution. He urges believers to trust in God's mercy and draw strength from past examples of faithfulness. Augustine also addresses the challenges faced by the Church, including dealing with sinners, hypocrites, and those who refuse to follow God's Word, reminding them of the righteous judgment of the Lord. He concludes by highlighting the importance of blessing others in the name of the Lord and discerning between those who are rooted in charity and those who are destined for destruction.
Jesus Christ:the True Bridegroom
By Basilea Schlink0Intimacy With GodThe Love of ChristHOS 2:19MAT 9:15JHN 3:29Basilea Schlink emphasizes that Jesus Christ embodies the true Bridegroom, yearning for a deep, reciprocal love from His bride, the soul. He desires not just obedience but a heartfelt commitment, longing for His followers to share in His sufferings and concerns for the world. Jesus' love is a jealous love, seeking exclusivity and intimacy, and He waits patiently for His bride to respond to His call. The true bridal state involves a willingness to sacrifice and comfort Him in His grief, reflecting His love through actions that honor Him. Ultimately, Jesus, as the Bridegroom, desires a relationship that transcends mere duty, inviting His bride into a profound union of love and purpose.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
He that hath the bride - The congregation of believers. Is the bridegroom - The Lord Jesus - the Head of the Church. See Mat 22:2, etc., where the parable of the marriage feast is explained. The friend of the bridegroom - The person whom the Greeks called the paranymph - there were two at each wedding: one waited on the bride, the other on the bridegroom: their business was to serve them, to inspect the concerns of the bridechamber, and afterwards to reconcile differences between husband and wife, when any took place. John considers himself as standing in this relation to the Lord Jesus, while espousing human nature, and converting souls to himself: this is the meaning of standeth by, i.e. ready to serve. See the observations at the end of the chapter.
John Gill Bible Commentary
He must increase,.... Not in stature of body, or in wisdom and understanding of mind, as man, he being come to maturity in these things already; but in fame, credit, and reputation among men; as he afterwards did in the land of Judea, by reason of his miracles and doctrines; and after that among the Gentiles, through the publication of his Gospel; and will more and more in the latter day, when he, and he alone, shall be exalted: and he must increase in the ministry of his word, which was published by him, and his disciples, throughout all the cities of Israel; and which, after his resurrection and ascension, grew and increased mightily, notwithstanding the opposition made unto it both by their civil and ecclesiastical rulers; and which, by the means of his apostles, was spread throughout the Gentile world, and will hereafter cover the earth, as the waters do the sea: and also in his kingdom and interest, which at first were very small, like a grain of mustard seed, or like a little stone cut out of the mountain without hands; but in process of time grew exceedingly, and will, ere long, till the face of the whole earth; for the kingdoms of this world will become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and his dominion shall be from sea to sea, and from the river to the ends of the earth; and of the increase of it there shall be no end. And so likewise in the number of his followers, which at first were but few in Judea, but afterwards greatly increased, and especially among the Gentiles; and will be very numerous in the latter day glory, when the nation of the Jews will be born at once, and the fulness and forces of the Gentiles are brought in: but I must decrease; as he did in his esteem among the people; see Joh 5:3; and in his work and office, which were now come to an end, Christ, whose forerunner he was, being come; and quickly after this he was put into prison, and there put to death.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:29 John the Baptist saw Jesus as the bridegroom and himself as the bridegroom’s friend. His response deflected glory from himself and elevated Jesus’ stature.