Scripture: John 5:35 (ESV) – “He was a burning and shining lamp, and you were willing to rejoice for a while in his light.”
Jesus offers a gracious commendation of John the Baptist: “He was a burning and shining lamp.” John was not the Light (as John 1:8 says), but he reflected it. He was burning with zeal and shining with truth, a prophet aflame with purpose, preparing the way of the Lord. For a time, the people rejoiced in his ministry—they admired his boldness, gathered to hear him, and were stirred by his message of repentance. But that joy was temporary.
Jesus’ words carry a subtle rebuke. The people rejoiced for a while in John’s light—but they failed to follow that light to its source. They were drawn to the momentary brilliance of the lamp, but they missed the arrival of the Light Himself.
William Gouge reflects that God sometimes uses powerful human voices—burning lamps—to awaken people briefly, but many do not persevere. “Transient joy in the truth,” Gouge warns, “is no true saving grace.” It is possible to be moved without being changed, to be stirred without being sanctified.
John’s light was meant to lead people to Christ, not gather them around himself. And that remains the task of every faithful servant of God today: to shine, yes—but only so that others may see the glory of the true Light.
This verse challenges us to consider what we’ve done with the truth we once rejoiced in. Do we still walk in the Light? Or have we merely admired the lamp and moved on?
Reflection Questions:
- What made John “a burning and shining lamp”? What can we learn from his example?
- Have you ever rejoiced in a season of spiritual awakening, only to drift away later? What happened?
- How can you ensure that your joy in the truth leads to lasting obedience, not temporary enthusiasm?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for the faithful lamps You raise up to point us to You. Let us never mistake the messenger for the Message, or the reflection for the Light. Keep us from being hearers only—those who rejoice for a time and then forget. Let our joy in You be lasting, and our response be faith that endures. Amen.
This devotional is based on John 5:35, with guidance from the theological reflections of William Gouge and the expository teaching of Pastor Chris Cousine.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 