He Must Increase | John 3:22–36 | Centralia Bible Baptist Church
What happens when you start to lose influence? Popularity? What happens when you don't get the spot light? It can reveal a lot about you.
In John 3:22–36, John the Baptist's disciples became concerned because people were leaving John's ministry and going to Jesus. But John wasn't jealous. He understood that his ministry was never about himself. His response gives us one of the clearest statements of Christian discipleship in Scripture:
“He must increase, but I must decrease.” — John 3:30
In this message, Pastor Tim Shellenberger examines four truths from John 3:22–36:
- John Knew Who He Was — A Steward
Everything we have—including our abilities, opportunities, influence, ministry, family, and church—is something God has entrusted to us. - John Knew What He Should Do — Exalt Christ
John wasn't the destination; he was pointing people to Jesus. The Christian life isn't about making much of ourselves, but making much of Christ. - John Knew Who Jesus Is — Above All
Jesus isn't simply another teacher, prophet, or religious leader. He came from above, speaks the words of God, and has all things in His hand. He deserves the preeminence. - John Knew What People Must Do — Believe
John ends with the gospel: “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.” The ultimate question isn't what we think about ourselves, but what we have done with Jesus Christ.
Because Jesus Christ is from heaven, above all, and the giver of everlasting life, He must increase while we decrease.
This message is part of our verse-by-verse study through the Gospel of John, “Believe and Live.” If you're studying the book of John, looking for a Bible-preaching church in the Centralia, Washington area, or simply want to know more about Jesus Christ, we invite you to watch and worship with us.
