John 2:22-36

Here we learn that John the Baptist has continued his ministry of calling people to repentance alongside Jesus’ ministry right up until his imprisonment.

This is one of the few places where we are told of Jesus also baptising people, although in 4:2 we read that it was Jesus’ disciples who were doing the actual baptising.

Clearly this is causing some confusion to John’s disciples. They seem to be jealous for his reputation. John however has no such reservations, he is secure in his ministry and calling, and knows who he is and is not. He is so secure that he can find joy in Jesus’ success and the knowledge that Jesus’ ministry must increase and his decrease. His humility and dedication to God are an example for us all to follow. We are of the earth, but Jesus is from heaven. He speaks of heavenly things with the power of the Spirit. Those who choose to believe and follow the Son will have eternal life, only Jesus, the Son of God, can offer this to us.

John the Baptist exemplifies the role that we are to take up now, to point others to Jesus, not drawing attention to ourselves, and be happy to step into the background when the job is done

‘Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to your name goes all the glory for your unfailing love and faithfulness.’ Ps 115:1

Response: Choose a word, phrase, idea or action that strikes you as significant at this moment in your life and spend a few minutes reflecting on it.