Week of March 4, 2022
He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:30, NKJV)
The Gospel of John records an interesting conversation that took place between John the Baptist and his disciples over purification and baptism. John’s disciples had been questioned on their popularity at the Jordan River with that of Jesus and His disciples who were also baptizing. It appeared to these Jewish men that the one to who John had “bore witness” to was now attracting all the attention. When John’s disciples questioned him on the matter John replied that “a person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given to him” (John 3:27 ESV). John understood as the forerunner to the Messiah that his ministry had paved the way for Jesus but would ultimately need to take a backseat.
Taking a “backseat” makes us feel like we have been put into an inferior position because we must allow someone else to be in control. Most people find this to be a defeat but John the Baptist’s brief ministry teaches all Christians that taking a backseat to Christ is the best thing you could ever do. Allowing Jesus to be in control means that He can use you to the fullest potential. Since most people are obsessed with being number one, hearing a Christian say I must be less can be interpreted as a person who is weak. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth. The sinful nature compels us to be self-centered but Jesus wants us to be Christ-centered. The only way to do this is to give Christ your whole life. Allow Christ, through the power of the Holy Spirit to take control. The only way to do this is to allow Christ to be number one in your life.
While John’s ministry only lasted a short time before King Herod beheaded him, his ministry teaches so much to every Christian. When we feel compelled to just focus on getting ahead or climbing the ladder, we can remember John and his words. The right thing to do is to become less and take comfort that Christ is in perfect control and following His lead will always lead to your victory!
God Bless, Pastor Rick