John 3:22-36 – John Testifies again about Jesus
- “The ‘Paranymph Principle”
- John is approached by his disciples whom seem to be defending his honor or at least his ministry before another Jew.
- It is often the second in commands that are less able to see the big picture but are tied in more to the actual leader. The primary leader [John in this case] has his eyes on Jesus and yet the secondary leaders [the talmidim] have their eyes fixed on John.
- Perhaps they are struggling with the reality that their status and even identity is tied in to John’s and if his ministry diminishes they feel their will?
- John however has true vision and clarity. He is selfless and most passionate not about his own comfort or ministry but what will most impact the Kingdom of God.
- He loves the Kingdom more than ministry.
- In Johns mind He was the paranymph (friend of the bridegroom - Christ), similar to the best man at an English wedding. [Manners & Customs of the Bible by Freeman]
- The Paranymph was responsible for introducing the bride to the bridegroom.
- He made the initial contact, and often in Jesus’ day was charged with preparing her for her meeting with the groom. Giving her advice about the grooms likes and dislikes etc.
- At the wedding ceremony the groom and the bride would converse and the paranymphs greatest joy would be the words of the bridegroom who would then turn and share his delight with him. Telling him he had done a good job.
- It was a short role - one of introduction.
- I wonder how many paranymphs fell in love with the bride themselves as they spent time together?
- I wonder how many struggled handing her over to a third party?
- John did not.
- He loved the groom more than he loved the bride.
- Do I?
- Do you?
- Praying today for a greater love for the groom than I have for His bride.
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