John 1:36

KJV

And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} looking upon {G1689} Jesus {G2424} as he walked {G4043}, he saith {G3004}, Behold {G2396} the Lamb {G286} of God {G2316}!

Complete Jewish Bible

On seeing Yeshua walking by, he said, “Look! God’s lamb!”

Berean Standard Bible

When he saw Jesus walking by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!”

American Standard Version

and he looked upon Jesus as he walked, and saith, Behold, the Lamb of God!

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 1:36 captures a profoundly significant moment where John the Baptist, upon seeing Jesus walking, declares to his disciples, "Behold the Lamb of God!" This declaration is not merely an identification but a theological pronouncement, succinctly encapsulating Jesus' divine identity and redemptive mission as the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of the world, thereby directing his followers away from himself and towards the true Messiah.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated immediately following John the Baptist's initial public testimony about Jesus, where he first introduced Him as "[the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - John's First Declaration of Jesus as the Lamb of God")" (John 1:29). The narrative flow in [John 1](/john/1 "John 1 - The Word Became Flesh") emphasizes John the Baptist's role as the divinely appointed forerunner, whose primary purpose is to bear witness to Jesus. The events of [John 1:36](/john/1-36 "John 1:36 - John the Baptist Points to Jesus") occur "the next day" after the initial encounter, reinforcing the continuity of John's witness. His public declaration here is explicitly directed at his own disciples, setting the stage for some of them to leave John and begin following Jesus, as recounted in [John 1:37](/john/1-37 "John 1:37 - John's Disciples Follow Jesus"). This sequence highlights John's humility and faithfulness to his calling—to decrease so that Christ might increase.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** John the Baptist's ministry was conducted in a period of intense messianic expectation within Judea. The Jewish people, under Roman occupation, longed for a deliverer, often envisioning a political or military Messiah. John's ascetic lifestyle and powerful preaching in the wilderness drew large crowds, leading many to wonder if he himself was the Christ (cf. [Luke 3:15](/luke/3-15 "Luke 3:15 - People Question if John is the Christ")). His identification of Jesus as "the Lamb of God" would have immediately resonated with Jewish listeners familiar with the Old Testament sacrificial system. Lambs were central to the daily Temple sacrifices, the annual Day of Atonement, and most significantly, the Passover celebration, which commemorated Israel's deliverance from slavery in Egypt through the blood of a sacrificed lamb (cf. [Exodus 12](/exodus/12 "Exodus 12 - The Passover")). This cultural backdrop imbues John's statement with profound theological weight, signaling Jesus' role not as a political liberator, but as a spiritual one, dealing with the fundamental problem of sin.

* **Key Themes:** [John 1](/john/1 "John 1 - The Word Became Flesh") is rich with foundational theological themes, and [John 1:36](/john/1-36 "John 1:36 - John the Baptist Points to Jesus") contributes significantly to several of them. Foremost is the **Identity of Jesus**, unequivocally declared by John as "the Lamb of God," a title that immediately points to His unique divine nature and redemptive purpose. This theme is central to John's Gospel, which consistently presents Jesus as God incarnate (cf. [John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was God"), [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). Another crucial theme is **Witness and Testimony**, as John the Baptist fulfills his divinely appointed role to bear witness to the Light (cf. [John 1:7-8](/john/1-7-8 "John 1:7-8 - John's Purpose to Bear Witness")). His repeated, emphatic declaration of Jesus' identity serves to authenticate Jesus' ministry and draw others to Him. Finally, the theme of **Atonement and Redemption** is powerfully introduced through the "Lamb of God" imagery, foreshadowing Jesus' ultimate sacrificial death as the means by which the sin of the world is taken away, a concept that permeates the entire New Testament.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **looking upon (Greek, _emblépō'_):** From *en* (in) and *blepō* (to see), this verb signifies to "look on," "observe fixedly," or "discern clearly." It implies more than a casual glance; John's gaze upon Jesus was intentional, discerning, and perhaps even contemplative. It suggests a focused attention that leads to a profound recognition and subsequent declaration.
* **Behold (Greek, _íde'_):** This is the second person singular imperative active of *eidō* (to see, to know), used as an interjection to denote surprise, attention, or a call to observe. It functions as a command, urging John's disciples and all who hear to pay close attention and truly "see" Jesus for who He is. It's an invitation to a revelatory encounter, not just a casual observation.
* **Lamb (Greek, _amnós'_):** Apparently a primary word, meaning "a lamb." In this context, it carries immense theological weight. It is not just any lamb, but *the* Lamb, signifying Jesus' unique role as the ultimate, sinless sacrifice. This term immediately evokes Old Testament sacrificial practices and prophetic imagery, pointing to the means of atonement and redemption.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And looking upon Jesus as he walked":** This opening phrase sets the scene, highlighting John's focused attention. The present participle "walking" (peripatéō) suggests Jesus was moving, perhaps casually, but John's gaze was fixed. This is not a chance encounter but a deliberate observation by John, who had already identified Jesus the previous day. His "looking upon" (emblépō) implies a discerning gaze, recognizing the divine significance in Jesus' very presence and movement.
* **"he saith":** This simple declarative clause indicates John's immediate verbal response to his observation. The verb "saith" (légō) implies a clear, authoritative statement, characteristic of John's prophetic ministry. It's a direct, unambiguous pronouncement, intended to be heard and understood by those present, especially his disciples.
* **"Behold the Lamb of God!":** This is the climactic declaration, functioning as a powerful exclamation and a command to observe. "Behold" (íde) draws immediate attention to Jesus. The title "the Lamb of God" is supremely significant, encapsulating Jesus' identity as the pre-ordained, perfect sacrifice provided by God Himself for the atonement of sins. It points to His unique role in God's redemptive plan, drawing upon rich Old Testament imagery of sacrifice, Passover, and the Suffering Servant. This statement is the essence of John's witness and the core message he was sent to deliver.

#### Literary Devices
John 1:36 employs several potent literary devices. **Symbolism** is paramount, with "the Lamb of God" serving as a profound symbol. This imagery is deeply rooted in Old Testament sacrificial practices (Passover lamb, sin offerings) and prophetic literature (Isaiah's Suffering Servant), immediately conveying Jesus' role as the ultimate, sinless sacrifice for humanity's sin. The use of **Direct Address** and **Exclamation** ("Behold the Lamb of God!") creates a sense of urgency and importance, compelling the listener to pay attention and acknowledge the profound truth being revealed. This direct, emphatic declaration also serves as a form of **Foreshadowing**, pointing forward to Jesus' atoning death on the cross. Furthermore, the scene itself acts as a **Literary Bridge**, transitioning the narrative focus from John the Baptist's ministry to the beginning of Jesus' public ministry, as John's disciples are prompted to follow Jesus.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John's declaration in [John 1:36](/john/1-36 "John 1:36 - John the Baptist Points to Jesus") is a theological cornerstone, revealing Jesus as the divinely appointed, perfect sacrifice for sin. This title, "the Lamb of God," transcends a mere animal sacrifice, pointing to a unique, once-for-all atonement that fulfills and supersedes all Old Testament types and shadows. It underscores God's initiative in providing redemption, demonstrating His profound love and justice. Jesus, as the sinless Lamb, willingly offers Himself, bearing the full weight of humanity's transgressions, thereby reconciling humanity to a holy God. This truth forms the very heart of the Gospel message, emphasizing that salvation is not achieved through human effort or ritual, but through faith in the atoning work of Christ.

* [Isaiah 53:7](/isaiah/53-7 "Isaiah 53:7 - The Suffering Servant Led Like a Lamb") - Prophesies the Suffering Servant who would be led "like a lamb to the slaughter," bearing the iniquities of many.
* [1 Peter 1:18-19](/1_peter/1-18-19 "1 Peter 1:18-19 - Redemption Through the Precious Blood of Christ") - Explains that believers are redeemed "with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot."
* [Revelation 5:6](/revelation/5-6 "Revelation 5:6 - The Lamb Standing as if Slain") - Depicts the Lamb "as though it had been slain," standing in the midst of the throne, signifying His eternal worthiness and sacrificial victory.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
To "Behold the Lamb of God!" is an enduring invitation for every generation. It calls us to fix our gaze upon Jesus, not merely as a historical figure, but as the living, atoning sacrifice for our sins. In a world constantly seeking meaning, purpose, and forgiveness in countless ways, John's simple yet profound declaration cuts through the noise and directs us to the singular source of true reconciliation with God. Reflecting on this verse should stir within us a deep sense of gratitude for the immense cost of our redemption and the boundless love of God who provided such a perfect Lamb. It challenges us to move beyond superficial understanding and to truly grasp the depth of Jesus' identity and mission, allowing it to transform our lives, our worship, and our witness. As John's disciples were prompted to follow Jesus, so too are we called to surrender our lives to Him, trusting in His completed work on the cross for our salvation and living lives that reflect His sacrificial love.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does it mean for me personally to "Behold the Lamb of God" in my daily life?**
* **How does understanding Jesus as the "Lamb of God" deepen my appreciation for God's love and justice?**
* **In what ways can I, like John the Baptist, point others to Jesus as the one who takes away sin?**

### FAQ

**Why does John the Baptist call Jesus "the Lamb of God"?**

Answer: John the Baptist's title "the Lamb of God" (Greek: *Amnos tou Theou*) is profoundly significant, drawing upon rich Old Testament imagery and foreshadowing Jesus' ultimate mission. It primarily refers to Jesus as the ultimate, perfect sacrifice for sin. This imagery would have immediately resonated with Jewish listeners, recalling:
* **The Passover Lamb:** Whose blood protected Israel from the angel of death in Egypt (cf. [Exodus 12:1-13](/exodus/12-1-13 "Exodus 12:1-13 - Instructions for the Passover Lamb")). Jesus is presented as the new Passover Lamb, whose blood delivers from the penalty of sin.
* **The Sacrificial System:** The numerous lambs offered daily and annually in the Temple for the atonement of sins (cf. [Leviticus 4:32](/leviticus/4-32 "Leviticus 4:32 - Offering of a Lamb for Sin")). These sacrifices were temporary and pointed to a final, perfect sacrifice.
* **The Suffering Servant of Isaiah:** Specifically, [Isaiah 53:7](/isaiah/53-7 "Isaiah 53:7 - The Suffering Servant Led Like a Lamb"), which describes a servant who would be "led like a lamb to the slaughter" and bear the iniquities of many. John's declaration identifies Jesus as the fulfillment of this prophecy, the one who would vicariously suffer and die for humanity's sins. Thus, the title encapsulates Jesus' redemptive work as the sinless sacrifice provided by God Himself.

**What is the significance of John the Baptist pointing his own disciples to Jesus?**

Answer: The significance of John the Baptist pointing his own disciples to Jesus, especially in [John 1:36-37](/john/1-36-37 "John 1:36-37 - John's Disciples Follow Jesus"), lies in his profound humility and faithfulness to his divine calling. John understood that his role was not to be the Messiah, but to prepare the way for Him and bear witness to His coming (cf. [John 1:6-8](/john/1-6-8 "John 1:6-8 - John's Purpose to Bear Witness")). By explicitly directing his disciples' attention to Jesus and even allowing them to leave him to follow Jesus, John demonstrates:
* **Selflessness:** He prioritized Jesus' ministry over his own, showing that true leadership in God's kingdom is about exalting Christ, not oneself.
* **Fulfillment of Prophecy:** He fulfilled the prophetic role of a forerunner, actively diminishing his own influence so that Jesus' could increase (cf. [John 3:30](/john/3-30 "John 3:30 - He Must Increase, I Must Decrease")).
* **Authenticity of Witness:** His actions lent immense credibility to his testimony about Jesus. If John, who was widely respected as a prophet, willingly deferred to Jesus, it underscored Jesus' supreme authority and identity. This act served as a powerful example for all future disciples and ministers of the Gospel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[John 1:36](/john/1-36 "John 1:36 - John the Baptist Points to Jesus") stands as a pivotal declaration of Christ-centered fulfillment, profoundly connecting the Old Testament's sacrificial system and prophetic anticipations to the person and work of Jesus. When John the Baptist proclaims, "Behold the Lamb of God!", he is not merely identifying Jesus, but unveiling Him as the ultimate reality to which centuries of Jewish history and ritual pointed. The Passover lamb, whose blood secured deliverance from death in Egypt (cf. [Exodus 12:21-23](/exodus/12-21-23 "Exodus 12:21-23 - The Blood of the Lamb as a Sign")), finds its perfect antitype in Jesus, whose shed blood provides eternal redemption from sin and death (cf. [1 Peter 1:18-19](/1_peter/1-18-19 "1 Peter 1:18-19 - Redemption Through the Precious Blood of Christ")). Similarly, the countless lambs offered under the Mosaic Law for the atonement of sins (cf. [Leviticus 1:4](/leviticus/1-4 "Leviticus 1:4 - The Purpose of the Burnt Offering")) were but shadows of the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice Jesus would make (cf. [Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). Furthermore, John's declaration directly echoes the prophetic suffering servant of [Isaiah 53](/isaiah/53 "Isaiah 53 - The Suffering Servant"), who was "led as a lamb to the slaughter" (cf. [Isaiah 53:7](/isaiah/53-7 "Isaiah 53:7 - The Suffering Servant Led Like a Lamb")) to bear the iniquities of many. Thus, Jesus, as "the Lamb of God," perfectly fulfills all these types and prophecies, becoming the definitive and eternal means by which God's justice is satisfied and His grace is extended, making reconciliation with God possible for all who believe (cf. [Romans 3:25](/romans/3-25 "Romans 3:25 - Christ as a Propitiation")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

John 1:29

¶ The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.

1 Peter 1:19

But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

1 Peter 1:20

Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,

Isaiah 65:1

¶ I am sought of [them that] asked not [for me]; I am found of [them that] sought me not: I said, Behold me, behold me, unto a nation [that] was not called by my name.

Isaiah 65:2

I have spread out my hands all the day unto a rebellious people, which walketh in a way [that was] not good, after their own thoughts;

Hebrews 12:2

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of [our] faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Isaiah 45:22

Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I [am] God, and [there is] none else.