John 3:25
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Then a dispute arose between John’s disciples and a certain Jew over the issue of ceremonial washing.
Commentaries
Excerpts gathered from published commentaries to ground the reading.
between some of--rather, "on the part of." and the Jews--rather (according to the best manuscripts), "and a Jew," about purifying--that is, baptizing, the symbolical meaning of washing with water being put (as in Joh 2:6) for the act itself. As John and Jesus were the only teachers who baptized Jews, discussions might easily arise between the Baptist's disciples and such Jews as declined to submit to that rite.
Open source ↗In this chapter we have, I. Christ's discourse with Nicodemus, a Pharisee, concerning the great mysteries of the gospel, in which he here privately instructs him (v. 1-21). II. John Baptist's discourse with his disciples concerning Christ, upon occasion of his coming into the neighbourhood where John was (Joh 3:22-36), in which he fairly and faithfully resigns all his honour and interest to him.
Open source ↗Original language
The Hebrew and Greek words behind this passage, with Strong's numbers — from openscriptures (CC BY-SA).
Cross-references
Other passages the community most often connects to this one. Tap to read.
Now six stone water jars had been set there for the Jewish rites of purification. Each could hold from twenty to thirty gallons.
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.
instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.
So it was necessary for the copies of the heavenly things to be purified with these sacrifices, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.
They consist only in food and drink and special washings—external regulations imposed until the time of reform.
And this water symbolizes the baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body, but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God—through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,
You have disregarded the commandment of God to keep the tradition of men.”