King James Version
What Does John 1:35 Mean?
“Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples;”
John 1:35 · KJV
Context
33
And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.
34
And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.
35
Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples;
36
And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!
37
And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryOn the following day, John again sees Jesus and declares: 'Behold the Lamb of God.' This repetition emphasizes the central identification of Christ. John stands with two disciples, deliberately directing them to Jesus. True teachers point students beyond themselves to Christ. This verse marks the beginning of disciple-making that will form Christ's inner circle. John's willingness to transfer followers to Jesus demonstrates pure ministry motivation—not building his own following but Christ's.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
These two disciples (Andrew and likely John the Evangelist) became the first of the Twelve. The Baptist's willingness to release his followers to Jesus challenges ministry models focused on building personal platforms. Ancient rabbis jealously guarded their disciples; John freely gives them to Jesus.
Reflection Questions
- How do Christian leaders today demonstrate John's willingness to point followers toward Christ rather than themselves?
- What characterized John's disciples that made them ready to follow Jesus?
Original Language Analysis
Greek · 12 wordsἐπαύριον2 of 12
“the next day after”
G1887occurring on the succeeding day, i.e., (g2250 being implied) to-morrow
πάλιν3 of 12
“Again”
G3825(adverbially) anew, i.e., (of place) back, (of time) once more, or (conjunctionally) furthermore or on the other hand
εἱστήκει4 of 12
“stood”
G2476to stand (transitively or intransitively), used in various applications (literally or figuratively)
καὶ7 of 12
“and”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἐκ8 of 12
“of”
G1537a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
αὐτοῦ11 of 12
“his”
G846the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
John 1:35 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to John 1:35 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge