John's Continuing Testimony Series

Jesus had returned from His ordeal in the wilderness where He resisted the temptation of Satan. Though He was hungry and tired He never lost sight of His mission; which was and is our salvation. When Jesus went out with His disciples and began doing miracles and baptizing, many people came to Him. Most of them weren’t looking for salvation. They were looking for miracles. Why are you seeking Jesus? Are you looking for what He can do for you, or are you seeking a relationship with Him.

1. John’s disciples are concerned for their master

A. John the Baptist was still at work calling people to repent. He proclaimed the kingdom of God to be near. Though he was six months older then Jesus his message agreed with Jesus’ message.

B. Jesus’ disciples were baptizing in the wilderness near Jerusalem, but John had moved roughly forty miles up the coast along the Jordan river.

C. John’s disciples were concerned that their master’s popularity was waning. Jesus was baptizing closer to the big city. He was becoming known as a miracle worker, and wherever He went He was considered a celebrity.

D. Is there someone you look at as a celebrity? We should be careful who we look up to. God loves us all the same.

2. John clearly gives testimony of the superior ministry of Jesus

A. John’s never claimed to be the messiah. His testimony to his disciples is similar to the testimony Jesus gave to Nicodemus. He reiterated to them that Jesus was sent by God as the redeemer of mankind.

B. John was happy to have served as Jesus’ forerunner. He was happy to see Jesus’ ministry growing. When you see a brother in Christ get a blessing, rejoice with him and never be jealous; God blessed you both with a part in His work.

C. He was grateful to God for the role he was allowed to play in God’s plan. Do you understand that we are all a part of what God is doing? God knows how to reach sinners. Ask Him for the wisdom and ability to reach them.

3. John clearly describes Jesus’ mission

A. John said, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (v. 30). Can you be content to be a supporting player in the Kingdom of God? John was and showed his humility in word and deed. Remember, god elevates the least

likely for His purposes so that there can be no mistake that He is the one in control.

B. He instructed his disciples to receive Christ’s testimony as the Word of God because by Jesus’ time the religion of the Jews was an empty shell of ritual and tradition. They had lost sight of God’s desire for their blessings

C. God sent Jesus to draw people back into perfect fellowship with Him. “The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him” (vv. 35-36).

“You came from heaven to earth to show the way, from the earth to the cross my debt to pay from the cross to the grave from the grave to the sky Lord I lift your name on high” (Katinas Lyrics: ©GospelMusicLyricsDen.com). John could only testify of what God had shown him, just as we can only testify of what God shows us. All too often people close their minds when it comes to the things of God. They’re quick to invent god’s that they’re able to put into a neat little box and understand. God gave everything pertaining to our salvation into His Son Jesus Christ’s authority. Faith in Christ for salvation is the key to everlasting life. Disbelief results in God’s anger and everlasting damnation. Jesus died on a Roman cross for our sins. John knew the Jesus was God’s Savior for all of us. When He rose from the grave He proved that He really is the Son of God and His Word can be trusted for eternity. Stop trusting only in yourself and put your trust in Jesus. Amen!