John 3: 22-36 Losing the Crowd and Liking it
Series: The Gospel of John
October 08, 2024
Pastor Mike
In this powerful exploration of John 3:22-36, we're confronted with the timeless issue of jealousy and its destructive power. We see how even John the Baptist's disciples struggled with this all-too-human emotion when Jesus began baptizing and drawing crowds. This passage reminds us of the dangers of comparison and the importance of recognizing our God-given roles. Just as John humbly declared, 'He must increase, but I must decrease,' we too are called to set aside our egos and rejoice in the success of others, particularly when it advances God's kingdom. This lesson challenges us to examine our hearts, confront our own jealousies, and strive to embody the selfless attitude that John exemplified. As we reflect on this, let's consider how we can cultivate a spirit of genuine celebration for others' successes in our own lives and faith communities.
Episode Notes
Here's a 5-day Bible Devotional Based on the Lesson
Day 1: Overcoming Jealousy with God's Love
Reading: John 3:22-30, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Devotional: John the Baptist's response to his disciples' concerns about Jesus' growing popularity demonstrates a heart free from jealousy. Instead of feeling threatened, John rejoices in Jesus' success, recognizing his own role as the forerunner.
This exemplifies true love, which "does not envy" (1 Cor. 13:4). Today, reflect on areas in your life where jealousy might be creeping in. How can you cultivate a heart that celebrates others' successes? Ask God to fill you with His perfect love, which drives out all fear and insecurity.
This exemplifies true love, which "does not envy" (1 Cor. 13:4). Today, reflect on areas in your life where jealousy might be creeping in. How can you cultivate a heart that celebrates others' successes? Ask God to fill you with His perfect love, which drives out all fear and insecurity.
Day 2: Embracing Our God-Given Purpose
Reading: John 3:27-30, Ephesians 2:10
Devotional: John the Baptist understood that his purpose was divinely appointed, stating, "A person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given him from heaven" (John 3:27). This truth applies to each of us - our gifts, roles, and purposes are bestowed by God.
Meditate on Ephesians 2:10, which reminds us that we are God's workmanship, created for good works He prepared in advance. How does this perspective change the way you view your life and calling?
Pray for clarity in discerning and embracing your unique purpose in God's grand design.
Meditate on Ephesians 2:10, which reminds us that we are God's workmanship, created for good works He prepared in advance. How does this perspective change the way you view your life and calling?
Pray for clarity in discerning and embracing your unique purpose in God's grand design.
Day 3: The Joy of Pointing Others to Christ
Reading: John 3:29-30, Philippians 1:18-21
Devotional: John's declaration, "He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:30), reveals the ultimate goal of Christian ministry - to exalt Christ above all else. Like Paul in Philippians, John found his joy in seeing Christ proclaimed, regardless of personal cost. Today, consider how you can make Christ more visible in your life. Are there areas where you're seeking your own glory instead of His? Ask the Holy Spirit to help you find deep satisfaction in directing others to Jesus, allowing His light to shine brighter through you.
Day 4: The Transformative Power of Belief
Reading: John 3:31-36, Romans 10:9-13
Devotional: The passage concludes with a powerful statement about belief in Jesus: "Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life" (John 3:36). This simple yet profound truth is the core of the gospel. Belief in Christ isn't just intellectual assent, but a transformative trust that reshapes our entire being.
Reflect on what it means to truly believe in Jesus. How has this belief changed your life?
If you're struggling with doubt, bring those concerns to God, asking Him to strengthen your faith and deepen your understanding of His love and salvation.
Reflect on what it means to truly believe in Jesus. How has this belief changed your life?
If you're struggling with doubt, bring those concerns to God, asking Him to strengthen your faith and deepen your understanding of His love and salvation.
Day 5: Living Under God's Grace, Not Wrath
Reading: John 3:36, Romans 5:1-11
Devotional: The stark contrast between those who believe and those who reject the Son reminds us of the gravity of our response to Jesus. For believers, the wrath of God no longer remains on us; instead, we stand in His grace.
This undeserved favor should inspire profound gratitude and a desire to live in a manner worthy of our calling. Today, meditate on the immense privilege of being reconciled to God through Christ.
How does this reality impact your daily choices and interactions? Pray for those who haven't yet experienced this grace, and consider how you might share this good news with others.
This undeserved favor should inspire profound gratitude and a desire to live in a manner worthy of our calling. Today, meditate on the immense privilege of being reconciled to God through Christ.
How does this reality impact your daily choices and interactions? Pray for those who haven't yet experienced this grace, and consider how you might share this good news with others.
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