“He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:30)
What a ministry John the baptist had! What was his job? Why was he here? His purpose was to exult Christ as much as he possibly could. And his whole ministry was devoted to pointing others away from himself — to Christ. When others asked him who he was, he simply replied, “I am a voice….” He was to be unseen; he was to prepare the way for the Messiah, the Savior. He was to ignite repentance and faith in the hearts of those who heard him, a longing for righteousness and God’s Lamb. John’s purpose was being fulfilled when his own disciples left following him to follow Jesus, and he rejoiced in it (3:29). He would say that he was unworthy to do the lowest servile work for the Lord Jesus– to untie His sandals. What humility, what lowliness is seen in God’s messenger!
I wonder how I would do if that were my job.
But wait… it is!
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Note: The Lord said of John that “none greater” had been born before him. Perhaps the Lord was speaking of his character, for meekness is greatness with God. As well, this could mean that John’s privilege was greater than any other before him: his ministry was not only to foretell the coming of the Messiah, but actually to proclaim that the Messiah was here! However, the Lord said that the one who is least in the kingdom would be greater than he; to be included in the reign of Christ would be a greater position than to proclaim His coming. What a privilege is ours to be linked with the coming King of kings!