John has been teaching the importance of fruit accompanying profession. Now John gives clear guidance as to what this fruit should be like. Those who are changed by grace should have lives typified by kindness (v10-11), integrity (v12-13) and fairness (v14).

We need to examine our lives to see if they show similar fruit as to what John called for. Do you see kindness, integrity and fairness in your life?

The people realised there was something special about John and even began to question if he was the Christ (v15). John’s reply shows wonderfully how Christ is much greater than him (v16). John was saying that he was nowhere near the same level as Jesus, not even worthy to do the menial task of untying His sandal.

John’s baptism was just with water, which could only bring outward cleansing; Jesus’ baptism would be with the Holy Spirit, Almighty God, which would bring cleansing to the very heart of sinners.

Sin is so deep within us that only the action of Almighty God can wash it. It certainly is not achieved by water baptism, water baptism points to the greater work of the Spirit which must happen within.