That You May Believe - Study Guide

Week 37 - September 12th, 2021

John 3:30

30 He must increase, but I must decrease.”

Context: After Jesus begins baptizing His followers, some of John the Baptist's disciples become worried that Jesus is threatening John’s ministry. Many who were once John’s followers are now deserting Him to become disciples of Jesus. John responds to his followers, saying “I am not the Christ.” He compares himself to a groomsman who rejoices when the groom comes to the wedding. He then utters the words of verse 30.

Meaning: John the Baptist recognized that his purpose was not to point to himself but to point to Jesus. He teaches his followers that the whole purpose of his ministry was to make himself obsolete, preparing the way for the true savior of the world. His ministry must now diminish so that the Christ’s may flourish.

Life Application: As followers of Jesus, we would do well to remember John’s words. Although we may give great help to those in need, we are not the Christ. Although we may receive praise and honor for our accomplishments in this life, we should use those accolades to point to Jesus’ greater work. A life lived for Jesus is a life of joyful insignificance, constantly pointing away from the self and toward the Christ.

For Further Study: Jesus comments on the importance and purpose of John’s ministry in John 5:32-38. What words and phrases does Jesus use to describe John? How can we be like John in our own life and ministry?