The closeness between John the Baptist and Jesus can hardly be overemphasized. It was true from the time of their conceptions and the evident, close relationship between their mothers. It is said that in certain parts of the world there are still a few who follow only the baptizer. After 2,000 years the transition apparently has not been made.

Among those disciples that Paul found, they had no clear witness of the far greater one who would follow John. This may very well be a special word for those today who are good, morally upright people but have not made the discovery of Jesus the Christ. Our duty to instruct and inspire is an extraordinary opportunity.

It is likely these twelve or so knew of Jesus and had awesome respect for him. What they apparently did not know was that salvation …