Jesus as God
John Prepares the Way of the LORD for Jesus
John's self-identification places Jesus' arrival within Isaiah's promised divine-coming imagery.
How this passage contributes to the case:
The labels below identify the kinds of evidence for Jesus' divinity found in this passage.
Select a label for an explanation.
Strength of evidence: Strong.
This passage provides substantial evidence relevant to Jesus' divine identity when read in its literary and historical context.
Scripture
What Was Said or Done
John identifies himself as Isaiah's wilderness voice preparing the way of the Lord; in the Gospel his ministry prepares directly for Jesus.
Historical and Cultural Context
Isaiah 40 announces comfort for Israel and commands preparation of a highway for YHWH.
Old Testament Background
Isaiah 40:3 is the direct background.
Exposition
The one whose way John actually prepares is Jesus. John therefore applies a YHWH-coming text within the narrative of Jesus' arrival.
Why This Points to His Divinity
The argument is cumulative rather than based on the word 'Lord' alone: the Gospel identifies Jesus as the one who fulfills the role occupied by YHWH in Isaiah's promise.