John 3:29

JOHN—NOTE ON John 3:29 John the Baptist’s reference to Jesus as the bridegroom (see Matthew 9:15 and parallels; see Ephesians 5:25; Revelation 19:7) identifies Jesus as Israel’s long-awaited King and Messiah. In the OT, Israel is frequently depicted as God’s “bride” (e.g., Isaiah 62:4; Jeremiah 2:2; Hosea 2:16). John the Baptist’s role is that of the bridegroom’s friend, who selflessly rejoices with the groom (see John 1:6, John 1:15, John 1:19).