Please read the passage before the commentary.
This is the first day of John’s new creation. As mentioned in the previous commentary, John 1:18-2:11 recounts the first week of the new creation. Today sets the stage. Just as God separated day and night, so on day one we separate the Christ from the non-Christ.
John is not the Christ, not Elijah, not the prophet, and not even the word. John is the voice that allows the Word to be heard. John is the advance detail sent to prepare the way for the Christ who would be coming after John. John gives the water; Christ gives the Spirit.
If we want to be a part in this new creation, then we have to become like John, the voice that enables the Word to be heard.
In Genesis, we can see the power of God’s Word separating the elements, arranging the immensity of the universe; ordering the earth with creatures that live in water, on earthy and in the sky; creating the human race and blessing family life. In John we can see God opening hearts to believe in the signs of God’s special presence in Christ. Let us be ecstatically thrilled at the marvelous works of God’s word among us.