John 5:35
He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light.
Original Language Analysis
ἐκεῖνος
He
G1565
ἐκεῖνος
He
Strong's:
G1565
Word #:
1 of 18
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
λύχνος
light
G3088
λύχνος
light
Strong's:
G3088
Word #:
4 of 18
a portable lamp or other illuminator (literally or figuratively)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καιόμενος
a burning
G2545
καιόμενος
a burning
Strong's:
G2545
Word #:
6 of 18
to set on fire, i.e., kindle or (by implication) consume
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 18
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
φαίνων
a shining
G5316
φαίνων
a shining
Strong's:
G5316
Word #:
8 of 18
to lighten (shine), i.e., show (transitive or intransitive, literal or figurative)
ἠθελήσατε
were willing
G2309
ἠθελήσατε
were willing
Strong's:
G2309
Word #:
11 of 18
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
πρὸς
for
G4314
πρὸς
for
Strong's:
G4314
Word #:
13 of 18
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
16 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
2 Peter 1:19We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:Matthew 11:11Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
Historical Context
John's ministry enjoyed temporary popularity (Matthew 3:5-6) before his imprisonment and execution. The religious leaders' initial interest gave way to skepticism when he endorsed Jesus and challenged their authority.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does initial religious enthusiasm often fade when God's message becomes demanding?
- How do we distinguish between being a 'light' that attracts attention versus one that leads to Christ?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus characterizes John as 'a burning and a shining light'—burning with Holy Spirit fire, shining with reflected glory. The past tense 'ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light' indicates their initial enthusiasm had waned. Popular enthusiasm for prophets often proves superficial, fading when their message confronts sin or demands change.