Commentary on the Gospel of
John’s Dare
The Law and the Prophets were two mighty forces in the life of the people of Israel. Having received the Law, there was always the tendency to abuse it. It was the mission of the prophets to keep turning the people to the spirit of the Law and the heart of God, the law-giver. However, these prophets were continually persecuted and murdered. And then, at some point, prophecy ended. For nearly 400 years, not a single prophet was seen in Israel. In the absence of prophets, religious leaders became powerful and sole interpreters of the Law, much to the loss of its spirit. It is at this juncture, John the Baptist emerged as prophet who dared to speak God’s words, challenge people to conversion, prepare the way for the Lord. Jesus has high praise for him. Do we have the heart to say “yes” to God’s call and be a prophetic voice in our times?
