What does John 3:28 mean?
Early in His earthly ministry, Jesus is attracting a greater number of followers than John the Baptist (John 3:26; 4:1). John responded by saying that God is ultimately in control (John 3:27). Here, he reminds everyone that this shouldn't be a problem. The Baptist made it clear that he was not the Promised One (John 1:20). He was simply preaching to prepare a path for the Messiah (John 1:23). In fact, the Baptist went out of his way to say that the One who is coming would be far better, and far more worthy, than he was (John 1:27).John the Baptist will directly point to Jesus (John 1:29). He specifically says this man is the One who is coming. The Baptist even appears to tell some of his students to leave and follow Jesus (John 1:35–37). There is no valid reason anyone ought to have thought Jesus' success would make the Baptist jealous. If anything, it's proof that what the Baptist preached was true, and that his mission was a success. John even compares himself to a best man at a wedding, happy for the groom's popularity (John 3:29).
John 3:22–30 describes an argument between followers of John the Baptist and a Jewish religious leader over purification. Though the passage does not name him, it's possible this man was Nicodemus; he had, who had just been discussing that topic with Jesus. The Baptist isn't upset that his followers are dwindling while Jesus attracts crowds. Instead, he makes it clear that Christ's glory was his mission, and seeing it succeed makes him happy. Rather than being selfish about our own applause, we should be happy when our efforts cause people to praise God.
John chapter 3 is one of the most important passages in the entire gospel. Many crucial ideas are explained here, including the role of Jesus as Savior. After the loud, public commotion at the temple, John transitions to a quiet, nighttime discussion. The speakers are Jesus and a Pharisee, Nicodemus, who is sincerely interested in understanding Jesus' ministry. These verses make it clear that Christ—and Christ alone—is the means of salvation for the entire world. This text also states that those who reject Jesus are rejecting God.
