Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version questioned him, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” New Living Translation asked him, “If you aren’t the Messiah or Elijah or the Prophet, what right do you have to baptize?” English Standard Version They asked him, “Then why are you baptizing, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” Berean Standard Bible asked him, “Why then do you baptize, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” Berean Literal Bible and they asked him and said to him, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” King James Bible And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet? New King James Version And they asked him, saying, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” New American Standard Bible They asked him, and said to him, “Why then are you baptizing, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” NASB 1995 They asked him, and said to him, “Why then are you baptizing, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” NASB 1977 And they asked him, and said to him, “Why then are you baptizing, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” Legacy Standard Bible And they asked him, and said to him, “Why then are you baptizing, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” Amplified Bible They asked him, “Why then are you baptizing, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” Berean Annotated Bible asked him, “Why then do you baptize (submerge), if you are not the Christ (the Anointed One), nor Elijah (my God is YHWH), nor the Prophet? Christian Standard Bible So they asked him, “Why then do you baptize if you aren’t the Messiah, or Elijah, or the Prophet? ” Holman Christian Standard Bible So they asked him, “Why then do you baptize if you aren’t the Messiah, or Elijah, or the Prophet?"” American Standard Version And they asked him, and said unto him, Why then baptizest thou, if thou art not the Christ, neither Elijah, neither the prophet? Contemporary English Version They asked him, "Why are you baptizing people, if you are not the Messiah or Elijah or the Prophet?" English Revised Version And they asked him, and said unto him, Why then baptizest thou, if thou art not the Christ, neither Elijah, neither the prophet? GOD'S WORD® Translation They asked John, "Why do you baptize if you're not the Messiah or Elijah or the prophet?" Good News Translation then asked John, "If you are not the Messiah nor Elijah nor the Prophet, why do you baptize?" International Standard Version They asked him, "Why, then, are you baptizing if you are not the Messiah, or Elijah, or the Prophet?" NET Bible So they asked John, "Why then are you baptizing if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?" New Heart English Bible And they asked him, "Why then do you baptize, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?" Webster's Bible Translation And they asked him, and said to him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou art not that Christ, nor Elijah, neither that prophet? Weymouth New Testament Again they questioned him. "Why then do you baptize," they said, "if you are neither the Christ nor Elijah nor the Prophet?" Majority Text Translations Majority Standard Bibleasked him, “Why then do you baptize, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” World English Bible They asked him, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?” Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionand they questioned him and said to him, “Why, then, do you immerse, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?” Berean Literal Bible and they asked him and said to him, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” Young's Literal Translation and they questioned him and said to him, 'Why, then, dost thou baptize, if thou art not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?' Smith's Literal Translation And they asked him, and said to him, Why immersest thou then, if thou art not Christ, neither Elias, neither a prophet? Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd they asked him, and said to him: Why then dost thou baptize, if thou be not Christ, nor Elias, nor the prophet? Catholic Public Domain Version And they questioned him and said to him, “Then why do you baptize, if you are not the Christ, and not Elijah, and not the Prophet?” New American Bible They asked him, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Messiah or Elijah or the Prophet?” New Revised Standard Version They asked him, “Why then are you baptizing if you are neither the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?” Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd they asked him and said to him, Why then do you baptize, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor a prophet? Aramaic Bible in Plain English And they asked him and said to him, “Why therefore are you baptizing, if you are not The Messiah, nor Elijah, nor The Prophet?” NT Translations Anderson New Testamentand they asked him, and said to him: Why, then, do you immerse, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the prophet? Godbey New Testament And they asked him, and said to him, Then why do you baptize, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor that prophet? Haweis New Testament And they questioned him, and said to him, Why then dost thou baptise, if thou be not the Messiah, nor Elias, nor that prophet? Mace New Testament "why then do you baptize, if you are not the Christ, nor Elias, nor any other prophet?" Weymouth New Testament Again they questioned him. "Why then do you baptize," they said, "if you are neither the Christ nor Elijah nor the Prophet?" Worrell New Testament And they asked him, and said to him, "Why, then, do you immerse, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?" Worsley New Testament and they asked him, and said to him, Why then dost thou baptize, if thou art not the Christ, nor Elias, nor a prophet? Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context The Mission of John the Baptist…24Then the Pharisees who had been sent 25 asked him, “Why then do you baptize, if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” 26“I baptize with water,” John replied, “but among you stands One you do not know.… Cross References asked him, Luke 3:10 The crowds asked him, “What then should we do?” Luke 3:12 Even tax collectors came to be baptized. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?” Luke 3:14 Then some soldiers asked him, “And what should we do?” “Do not take money by force or false accusation,” he said. “Be content with your wages.” “Why then do you baptize, Matthew 3:11 I baptize you with water for repentance, but after me will come One more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. Luke 3:16 John answered all of them: “I baptize you with water, but One more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. Acts 1:5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” if you are not the Christ, Matthew 26:63 But Jesus remained silent. Then the high priest said to Him, “I charge You under oath by the living God: Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God.” Mark 14:61 But Jesus remained silent and made no reply. Again the high priest questioned Him, “Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?” Luke 22:67 “If You are the Christ, tell us.” Jesus answered, “If I tell you, you will not believe. nor Elijah, Matthew 11:14 And if you are willing to accept it, he is the Elijah who was to come. Matthew 17:12-13 But I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but have done to him whatever they wished. In the same way, the Son of Man will suffer at their hands.” / Then the disciples understood that He was speaking to them about John the Baptist. Luke 1:17 And he will go on before the Lord in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” nor the Prophet?” Deuteronomy 18:15 The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your brothers. You must listen to him. Deuteronomy 18:18 I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers. I will put My words in his mouth, and he will tell them everything I command him. Acts 3:22 For Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your brothers. You must listen to Him in everything He tells you. Mark 1:7-8 And he proclaimed: “After me will come One more powerful than I, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. / I baptize you with water, but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” Treasury of Scripture And they asked him, and said to him, Why baptize you then, if you be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet? Why. Matthew 21:23 And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority? Acts 4:5-7 And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes, … Acts 5:28 Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us. that Christ. John 1:20-22 And he confessed, and denied not; but confessed, I am not the Christ… Daniel 9:24-26 Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy… Jump to Previous Baptism Baptize Baptizing Christ Elias Elijah Prophet Question Questioned ThouJump to Next Baptism Baptize Baptizing Christ Elias Elijah Prophet Question Questioned ThouJohn 1 1. The divinity, humanity, office, and incarnation of Jesus Christ.15. The testimony of John. 39. The calling of Simon and Andrew, Philip and Nathanael asked him This phrase indicates a direct questioning of John the Baptist by the religious leaders. In the context of the Gospel of John, this interrogation reflects the authority and influence of the Jewish leaders, who were concerned about any new religious movements that could challenge their power. The act of questioning also highlights the importance of John the Baptist's ministry and the impact it was having on the people. “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ nor Elijah nor the Prophet?” Persons / Places / Events 1. John the BaptistA central figure in this passage, John the Baptist was known for his role in preparing the way for Jesus Christ through his ministry of baptism and preaching repentance. 2. The Pharisees A religious group in Judaism known for their strict adherence to the Law and traditions. They were often skeptical of new movements and figures like John the Baptist. 3. The Christ (Messiah) The anointed one promised in the Old Testament, whom the Jews were expecting to deliver them. The Pharisees were questioning if John claimed this title. 4. Elijah A prophet from the Old Testament who was expected to return before the coming of the Messiah, as prophesied in Malachi 4:5. 5. The Prophet Referring to the prophet like Moses, as mentioned in Deuteronomy 18:15, whom the Jews were also expecting. Teaching Points Understanding Identity and CallingJohn the Baptist knew his role and calling. He did not claim titles that were not his, demonstrating humility and clarity of purpose. As believers, we should seek to understand our God-given roles and serve faithfully within them. The Importance of Baptism Baptism was a significant act of repentance and preparation for the coming of Christ. It symbolizes purification and readiness to receive Jesus. Christians today continue this practice as a public declaration of faith and commitment to Christ. Expectations vs. Reality The Pharisees had specific expectations of who the Messiah, Elijah, and the Prophet would be. Often, God's plans and the fulfillment of His promises may not align with human expectations. We should remain open to God's ways, which may differ from our preconceived notions. Witnessing with Integrity John the Baptist's testimony was consistent and truthful. As Christians, our witness to others should be marked by integrity and truthfulness, pointing others to Christ rather than ourselves. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of John 1:25?2. How does John 1:25 challenge us to recognize true spiritual authority today? 3. What does John 1:25 reveal about the expectations of religious leaders? 4. How can we discern God's calling in our lives like John the Baptist? 5. Why is understanding John 1:25 important for recognizing Jesus' role in salvation? 6. How does John 1:25 connect with Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah? 7. Why did the Pharisees question John the Baptist's authority in John 1:25? 8. How does John 1:25 challenge the concept of religious authority? 9. What is the significance of baptism in John 1:25? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from John 1? 11. Who is Jesus and what is his significance? 12. What does 'voice in the wilderness' signify? 13. What are the core beliefs of the Belgic Confession? 14. What does the Bible say about mental health? What Does John 1:25 Mean They asked himThe delegation from Jerusalem—comprising priests and Levites—has been pressing John with questions (John 1:19-24). Their approach is official and inquisitive, not curious in a friendly sense. As servants of the religious establishment, they are charged with protecting Israel from false teachers (Deuteronomy 13:1-5). So when they “asked him,” their words carry weight: • They represent the authority structures of the day (John 7:32). • Their interrogation reflects a history of testing prophetic claims (Jeremiah 23:16-18). • John’s bold public ministry on the banks of the Jordan is too prominent to ignore (Mark 1:5). Why then do you baptize Baptism was known in Judaism for proselytes, but a prophet calling all Israel to be baptized implied that the covenant people needed cleansing. The leaders imply, “What right do you have to administer a sign that points to repentance and readiness for the kingdom?” • Isaiah 1:16 calls Israel to “wash and cleanse yourselves.” • Ezekiel 36:25-27 promises a future sprinkling with clean water when God gives a new heart. John’s baptism isn’t mere ritual; it is a preparatory act pointing ahead to Someone greater (Luke 3:16). The question, therefore, is about authority: on whose authority does John do this? (Matthew 21:23-27). If you are not the Christ “Christ” (Messiah) carries royal expectation (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Psalm 2:6-7). By denying he is the Christ (John 1:20), John removes the possibility that his authority comes from a royal, messianic office. • The people were “waiting expectantly” for the Christ (Luke 3:15). • John affirms that the Messiah is among them but not yet revealed (John 1:26-27). In essence, the leaders say, “Since you claim no messianic office, what right have you to introduce such a powerful sign?” Nor Elijah Malachi 4:5 promises Elijah’s return “before the great and awesome Day of the LORD.” Many Jews expected a literal re-appearance of the prophet. John confesses he is not Elijah in that sense (John 1:21), though Jesus later explains that John came “in the spirit and power of Elijah” (Luke 1:17; Matthew 11:14). The officials assume that if John is not Elijah, he lacks prophetic credentials significant enough to warrant a national movement. Their unbelief misses the true fulfillment of Malachi’s promise. Nor the Prophet? “The Prophet” recalls Deuteronomy 18:15-18, where Moses foretold a prophet like himself who would speak God’s words. Some first-century Jews saw this figure as distinct from the Messiah (John 7:40-41). By denying he is “the Prophet,” John makes it clear he is not the ultimate law-giver or mediator. Rather, he is a voice preparing the way (John 1:23; Isaiah 40:3). • Acts 3:22-23 applies “the Prophet” to Jesus. • John positions himself strictly as forerunner, urging people to ready their hearts. summary John’s interrogators assume that only the Christ, Elijah, or the Prophet could rightly institute a baptism of national significance. John’s denial of all three roles forces them—and us—to see that his authority comes directly from the One whose way he prepares. His baptism calls Israel to repentance so they will recognize Jesus, the true Messiah, when He steps onto the stage (John 1:29-34). (25) Why baptizest thou then?--Baptism, which was certainly one of the initiatory rites of proselytes in the second or third century A.D., was probably so before the work of the Baptist. It is not baptism, therefore, which is strange to the questioners, but the fact that he places Jews and even Pharisees (Matthew 3:7) in an analogous position to that of proselytes, and makes them to pass through a rite which marks them out as impure, and needing to be cleansed before they enter "the kingdom of heaven." By what authority does he these things? They had interpreted such passages as Ezekiel 36:25 ff. to mean that Baptism should be one of the marks of Messiah's work. None less than the Christ, or Elias, or "the prophet" could enact a rite like this. John is assuming their power, and yet is not one of them.Verse 25. - And they asked him (put the question), and said to him, Why baptizest thou, then, if thou be not the Christ, not Elijah, not the prophet? It would seem that, judging from such expressions as Ezekiel 36:25, 26 and Zechariah 13:1, the Jews expected some renewal of ceremonial purification on a grand scale at the Messianic appearance, and John's repudiation of every personal rank, which could, according to their view, justify him called for some explanation.Parallel Commentaries ... Greek askedἠρώτησαν (ērōtēsan) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural Strong's 2065: Apparently from ereo; to interrogate; by implication, to request. him, αὐτὸν (auton) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Singular Strong's 846: He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. “Why Τί (Ti) Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Accusative Neuter Singular Strong's 5101: Who, which, what, why. Probably emphatic of tis; an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what. then οὖν (oun) Conjunction Strong's 3767: Therefore, then. Apparently a primary word; certainly, or accordingly. do you baptize, βαπτίζεις (baptizeis) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 2nd Person Singular Strong's 907: Lit: I dip, submerge, but specifically of ceremonial dipping; I baptize. if εἰ (ei) Conjunction Strong's 1487: If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc. you σὺ (sy) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative 2nd Person Singular Strong's 4771: You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. are εἶ (ei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 2nd Person Singular Strong's 1510: I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. not οὐκ (ouk) Adverb Strong's 3756: No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. the ὁ (ho) Article - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. Christ, Χριστὸς (Christos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 5547: Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus. nor οὐδὲ (oude) Conjunction Strong's 3761: Neither, nor, not even, and not. From ou and de; not however, i.e. Neither, nor, not even. Elijah, Ἠλίας (Ēlias) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 2243: Elijah, the prophet. Of Hebrew origin; Helias, an Israelite. nor οὐδὲ (oude) Conjunction Strong's 3761: Neither, nor, not even, and not. From ou and de; not however, i.e. Neither, nor, not even. the ὁ (ho) Article - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. Prophet?” προφήτης (prophētēs) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 4396: From a compound of pro and phemi; a foreteller; by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet. Links John 1:25 NIVJohn 1:25 NLT John 1:25 ESV John 1:25 NASB John 1:25 KJV John 1:25 BibleApps.com John 1:25 Biblia Paralela John 1:25 Chinese Bible John 1:25 French Bible John 1:25 Catholic Bible NT Gospels: John 1:25 They asked him Why then do you (Jhn Jo Jn) |
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