King James Bible
"He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled."
John the Baptist establishes a marriage metaphor where Jesus is the bridegroom and Israel/the Church is the bride. This imagery, rooted in Old Testament prophecy, affirms that the Messiah alone possesses the covenant relationship with God's people. John identifies himself as the "best man" whose role is to support and celebrate the groom's success. In Jewish weddings, this friend stood outside the bridal chamber and rejoiced when hearing the groom's voice, signifying the marriage's consummation. John declares his mission complete—he has successfully prepared the way for Christ and witnessed His arrival. His joy comes not from personal glory but from seeing Jesus take His rightful place, exemplifying true humility in ministry.