John has been thrown into the witness box. He came to be a witness and hence testifying in any forum would have been second nature to him. So, when the priests and Levites who were sent by the Jews from Jerusalem to interrogate him ask him who he is he “confesses and does not deny it” that he is not the Messiah. John the Baptist identifies himself in, through, and by his relationship with Jesus. Whereas Jesus defines himself as “I AM,” John is clear to say, “I am not.” He is not the Messiah, Elijah, or the Prophet. He is not the light that shines in the darkness.
