| Pointing to Jesus and getting out of the way. (John 1:6-8; 19-28) |
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We are called to be witnesses of Jesus Christ. Our goal is to point others to him without getting in the way. John the Baptist provides the example for us to follow. 1:6 There came a man, sent from God, whose name was John. 1:7 The same came for witness, that he might bear witness of the light, that all might believe through him. 1:8 He was not the light, but `came' that he might bear witness of the light. JtB knew his calling – he was “sent from God.” He knew his purpose – “He came for witness ...” of Jesus so that others “might believe.” He didn’t allow his own ego to get in the way of Jesus. Despite the large crowds that followed him, he was prepared to step aside because he knew that “he was not the light.” JtB’s story continues in verse 19 where he is questioned about his identity. He “confessed freely” that he was not Jesus. As he was questioned about being someone great – the Christ, Elijah, or Isaiah – JtB didn’t respond, “No, I’m not them, but I am someone important; I’m the one who will personally introduce the Messiah and baptize him.” He wasn't concerned about their view of him. He simply responded, “I am not _____” and “No.” When pressed for a response regarding his identity, he finally replied, “I am the voice …” That is a powerful response to me. We are God’s voice to a world in need. We are simply a mouth-piece. He calls us to prepare the way of the LORD so that the Holy Spirit might move in the lives of people to restore them into a right relationship with God. People around us are without Christ in their own “desert”, in their own “darkness.” Be the voice introducing them to Christ, preparing the way of the LORD, and sharing with them LIFE in Christ. |
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