"We Have God's Witness! What's Your Verdict?" (John 1:6-13)

In our passage, John brings before us the witness of John the Baptist to Christ Jesus (v. 6-8). John also introduces us to the witness of Christ Himself with these words, "There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man" (v. 9). By the sovereign power of God, every person has enough evidence (light) to be responsible! God has planted evidence about Himself in man through general revelation found in creation and conscience (both bear witness to God)! See Romans 1:19-20. The result of this knowledge does not produce salvation but either leads to the light of Jesus or brings about condemnation in all who ignore this light. Because of this evidence, Paul says, "So they are without excuse" (Romans 1:20). In our lesson, John isn't just reporting on a courtroom drama for our entertainment. He's drawing us into the story to elicit our personal verdict on the witness to Jesus Christ! We have God's witness! What's your verdict? John shows that God has given more than enough witness to Jesus (v. 6-9) and that this witness demands a verdict of trust in Him (v. 10-13). However, in spite of the firm and stable evidence, that verdict is not guaranteed! We have God's witness! What's your verdict? The purpose of a courtroom witness is to provide a firm basis for the truth, or to establish the truth beyond any reasonable doubt! God sent John the Baptist for such a witness. We read, "There came a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to testify about the Light, so that all might believe through him. He was not the Light, but he came to testify about the Light" (v. 6-8). The witness that God has given regarding Christ demands a verdict! There's no more credible witness than John the Baptist...he was sent by God! We have God's witness! What's your verdict? So now you have heard the eyewitness testimony. John the Baptist has testified that Jesus is the Light. John has introduced us to the eyewitness testimony of John the Baptist to Christ. There's more than adequate testimony in favor of Christ Jesus. It's now time for your personal verdict on John's testimony to Jesus Christ. Will you continue to ignore Him as you chase your own agenda? Will you reject Him because of your pride? Will you ignore Him because He confronts your way of life? Or, will you receive the testimony and become His child? Your move. Be encouraged!