John 3:31-36

A question is raised with regard to this section similar to that raised about John 3:16. Some regard what follows not as a continuation of the Baptist's speech, but as the Evangelist's comment upon it. But, as in the former case, seeing that the Evangelist gives us no intimation that he is taking the place of the speaker, and that there is nothing in what follows to compel us to suppose that there is such a transition, it is best to regard the Baptist as still speaking. It is, however, quite possible that this latter part of the discourse is more strongly coloured with the Evangelist's own style and phraseology, while the substance still remains the Baptist's. Indeed a change of style may be noticed. The sentences become less abrupt and more connected; the stream of thought is continuous.

"The Baptist, with the growing inspiration of the prophet, unveils before his narrowing circle of disciples the full majesty of Jesus; and then, as with a swan-like song, completes his testimony before vanishing from history." Meyer, in loco.

There is no contradiction between this passage and Matthew 11:2-6, whatever construction we put on the latter (see notes there). John was -of the earth," and therefore there is nothing improbable in his here impressing on his disciples the peril of not believing on the Messiah, and yet in prison feeling impatience, or despondency, or even doubt about the position and career of Jesus.