He must increase, but I must decrease. John 3:30 (ESV)
I have heard this sentence my whole life: ‘He must increase, but I must decrease.’ However, I have never really paid attention to its context. This little interchange in John 3 is a fascinating glimpse into the character of John the Baptist.
They came to John and here is what they said to him. “Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan River is baptizing people. He is the one you told us about. Everyone is going to him.”
John replied, “A person can receive only what God gives them from heaven. You yourselves are witnesses that I said, ‘I am not the Messiah. I was sent ahead of him.’ The bride belongs to the groom. The friend who helps the groom waits and listens for him. He is full of joy when he hears the groom’s voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete. He must become more important. I must become less important. John 3:26-30 (ESV)
John’s Followers Freak Out
John has people who are loyal to him, who have been following his teaching, and who are extremely concerned when they see this new teacher showing up who seems to be stealing John’s thunder. John has been the one baptizing people. Now, this new teacher and his disciples are baptizing others. More and more people are following the new guy. So, John’s followers start worrying about John.
John’s fame. His renown. His authority. All these things are being threatened by this new teacher, Jesus.
But John does not respond defensively or try to protect his reputation or importance. He realizes right away that it is not about him.
He reminds his disciples that he has always said that he is not the Messiah. John is the one sent ahead to make a way for the Messiah.
What a Word Picture!
In an eloquent wedding word picture, he lets his followers know that the One they have been waiting for has arrived. It’s time for Jesus burst onto the scene. It’s time for Jesus to increase and John to decrease.
Too many times, I think it’s all about me.
Sometimes I want my own way and I have to realize that it’s not about me. It’s about reacting in a way that is honoring to God and that ministers to others. Even when I am weary. Even when I want to do something else.
It’s not about me.
He must increase and I must decrease.
Action Step:
Whenever I feel my frustration and irritation with my family rising, I need to a heart check. Am I wishing life was all about me? How does God want me to react right now?
Prayer:
Dear God, thank You that Your word is living and active. That we are challenged to heart checks in its pages. Help us to see the motives behind our actions and react in a way that honors You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Check out the other devotionals and bible art journaling posts from Good News: A Study of the Gospel of John by clicking here.