Journey Through JohnSample

Scripture:

John 1:27 He is the one who comes after me, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. 

Observation:

John the Baptist is a great example of proper humility. He had the courage to stand up and speak boldly about the need for people to repent. He was a leader, whom many followed. But he knew and accepted the limitations of the role that God had given him. He freely stated that Jesus (his younger cousin) was much greater than he. And when John’s own disciples left John to follow Jesus, John wasn’t upset, because this was John’s whole purpose in life – to draw attention, not to John, but to Jesus. 

Application:

As a minister, I must always remember that my role is not to gather a following or to get people to like me and think I am great. Rather, like John, my purpose is to draw attention to Jesus’ greatness and help people want to follow Him. It is tempting at times to get caught up in my own desire for popularity. This passage reminds me that true greatness is being willing to stand in the shadows unnoticed, while Jesus is exalted and glorified. 

Prayer:

Lord, forgive me for the times I have sought to bring glory to myself. Help me to humbly accept the role you have given me. Help me to overcome the temptation to get people to notice me; and instead to consistently point to you and your greatness. You are the One who is worthy of praise and honor. I worship you. Amen.

Truths to notice:

1:20 John the Baptist was not the Messiah (Christ is another word for Messiah), but he prepared the way for the Messiah (1:23) who was much greater than he (1:27).

1:29 Jesus is like a sacrificial lamb provided by God to take away our sins.

1:34 Jesus is the Son of God, evidenced by the Holy Spirit coming down on Him.

1:45 Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament writings predicting a Messiah.

1:51 Jesus’ favorite Messianic title (out of the Old Testament) for Himself was “Son of Man,” emphasizing how He identified with us humans.