How does John's example in Acts 13:25 inspire your personal witness for Jesus? Setting the Scene Acts 13 records Paul’s message in the synagogue of Pisidian Antioch. In verse 25 he reminds his hearers of John the Baptist’s closing words about Jesus: “And as John was completing his course, he said, ‘Who do you suppose I am? I am not He. But behold, one is coming after me, whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.’” What We Notice about John’s Witness • John knew his mission was temporary—he was “completing his course.” • He refused to let people place their hopes in him: “Who do you suppose I am? I am not He.” • He magnified Jesus, not himself: “One is coming after me.” • He expressed deep humility: “whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.” • He kept pointing ahead, urging listeners to look beyond the messenger to the Messiah. Other Passages That Echo John’s Example • John 1:6-8—John came “to bear witness about the Light.” • John 1:19-23—He calls himself only “a voice,” directing attention to Christ. • Mark 1:7; Matthew 3:11; Luke 3:16—parallel declarations of unworthiness. • 2 Corinthians 4:5—“For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord.” How John’s Example Shapes Personal Witness Today Identify your role • See yourself as a steward, not the star. • Recognize that every conversation, post, or study is part of “your course,” assigned by God (Ephesians 2:10). Keep the focus on Jesus • Speak His name clearly; don’t settle for vague spirituality. • Use Scripture so people hear Christ’s own words (Romans 10:17). Cultivate genuine humility • Avoid spotlighting achievements or experiences; boast in the Lord alone (Jeremiah 9:23-24). • Serve others in practical ways that reflect the Servant-King (Mark 10:45). Point forward, not to yourself • Invite people to meet Jesus in the Gospels. • Encourage them to seek Him directly through prayer and Scripture. Finish your course faithfully • Stay consistent over the long haul; John kept witnessing until his final days (John 3:30). • Trust God with the results, knowing the Spirit, not your skill, brings new birth (John 3:8). Takeaway John’s brief, humble declaration in Acts 13:25 models a witness that is clear, Christ-centered, and self-effacing. I am inspired to run my own course the same way—making much of Jesus and little of myself, until He calls me home. |
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