John the Baptist and Jesus

Abstract

The text of Jn 3.25 is problematic in its reference to μετά 'Ioυδαίoυ. While it is likely that that variant, rather than μετά 'Ioυδαίων, is to be preferred, the contextual sense is difficult. Suggestions of textual corruption are not to be commended. It is proposed, however, that it is the evangelist who has adapted a pre-Gospel tradition that referred to a dispute between disciples of John the Baptist and Jesus. By slightly changing the tradition, the evangelist has seen its potential for again presenting John as a witness to the superiority of Jesus. The pre-Gospel tradition may help to shed light on Jesus' early ministry.