How should John 3:26 shape our response to others' success in ministry? Setting the Scene John 3 opens with John the Baptist’s thriving ministry. Crowds flock to him for baptism. Suddenly, Jesus begins baptizing nearby (John 3:22), and many start going to Him instead. John’s disciples notice the shift and report it with alarm: “Rabbi, the One who was with you beyond the Jordan, the One you testified about — He is baptizing, and everyone is going to Him.” (John 3:26) What Their Words Reveal • “Everyone is going to Him” — a tone of envy and panic. • Fear that John’s influence is slipping. • Comparison rather than celebration. John’s Example: A Heart Check for Us Immediately after verse 26, John responds (vv. 27-30). His attitude provides a template for our own reactions when another ministry flourishes. • God is the giver: “A man can receive only what is given him from heaven.” (v 27) • Identity is settled: John knows he is “not the Christ,” just “the friend of the bridegroom.” (v 28-29) • Joy, not jealousy: “So this joy of mine is now complete.” (v 29) • Christ must increase: “He must increase; I must decrease.” (v 30) How John 3:26 Shapes Our Response Today When we hear, “Everyone is going to them,” Scripture calls us to: 1. Recognize God’s Sovereignty • Ministries prosper by heaven’s assignment (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). • Success elsewhere does not threaten God’s plan for us. 2. Reject Envy Immediately • Envy is a work of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21). • Saul’s jealousy of David destroyed his peace (1 Samuel 18:7-9). 3. Rejoice in Gospel Advance • “Whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed; and in this I rejoice.” (Philippians 1:18) • Celebrate growth wherever Christ is exalted. 4. Remember Our Role • We are stewards, not owners (1 Corinthians 4:1-2). • Different gifts, one mission (Romans 12:4-6). 5. Redirect Praise to Jesus • Point others to Him, not to ourselves (2 Corinthians 4:5). • Speak well of faithful servants, but exalt the Lord who empowers them. Practical Steps for Guarding the Heart • Pray regularly, “He must increase; I must decrease.” • Speak encouragement to flourishing leaders. • Share resources, platforms, and people without reservation. • Measure success by faithfulness, not numbers (Luke 16:10). • Cultivate gratitude for your own calling, however hidden (Colossians 3:17). Fruit of a John 3:26 Mindset • Freedom from comparison. • Unity in the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:3). • Joy multiplied as the gospel spreads. • A testimony that magnifies Jesus above all. |
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