- Joined
- Oct 26, 2007
- Messages
- 12,539
He must increase, but I must decrease." John 3:30 ESV
John the Baptist didn’t care what others thought of him—his wild appearance, eccentric diet, prophetic speech, and all. John knew he was just a messenger—it was the Messiah’s image and esteem, John was interested in boosting and exalting.
John the Baptist had no lack of confidence as he bucked society’s fashions and conventions to proclaim a radical message from his wilderness platform. He wasn’t afraid to insult the establishment and challenge religious leaders who shackled the people with tradition yet lived in covert rebellion against God. Yet this prophet wasn’t interested in gaining a following for himself.
Instead, this fiery man thundered out the call for people to repent and turn to the Lord. Then, in the waters of the Jordan River, he baptized those who meant business.
John’s intensity and bold actions weren’t a by-product of climbing his own ladder to fame and success. And his obvious humility didn’t spring from self-hate or low self-esteem either. He simply recognized that this life wasn’t all about John—it was all about Jesus.
Granted, the short-term benefits of exalting Jesus Christ above self seemed bleak at best. Yet John the Baptist reaped rich, eternal rewards. Jesus Himself honored John, declaring that no prophet—not even Moses—was greater. Amazing!
Prayer: Unflinching Lord, my life is all about Jesus. At least it’s supposed to be. May I honor You today and always.
John the Baptist didn’t care what others thought of him—his wild appearance, eccentric diet, prophetic speech, and all. John knew he was just a messenger—it was the Messiah’s image and esteem, John was interested in boosting and exalting.
John the Baptist had no lack of confidence as he bucked society’s fashions and conventions to proclaim a radical message from his wilderness platform. He wasn’t afraid to insult the establishment and challenge religious leaders who shackled the people with tradition yet lived in covert rebellion against God. Yet this prophet wasn’t interested in gaining a following for himself.
Instead, this fiery man thundered out the call for people to repent and turn to the Lord. Then, in the waters of the Jordan River, he baptized those who meant business.
John’s intensity and bold actions weren’t a by-product of climbing his own ladder to fame and success. And his obvious humility didn’t spring from self-hate or low self-esteem either. He simply recognized that this life wasn’t all about John—it was all about Jesus.
Granted, the short-term benefits of exalting Jesus Christ above self seemed bleak at best. Yet John the Baptist reaped rich, eternal rewards. Jesus Himself honored John, declaring that no prophet—not even Moses—was greater. Amazing!
Prayer: Unflinching Lord, my life is all about Jesus. At least it’s supposed to be. May I honor You today and always.
