What can we learn from John's humility in Acts 13:25 for our lives? Setting the Scene Paul, preaching in Pisidian Antioch, reminds his listeners of John the Baptist’s mission: “ ‘Who do you suppose I am? I am not that One. But He is coming after me whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.’ ” (Acts 13:25) What We See in John’s Words • Clear self-understanding: John knew exactly who he was—and who he was not. • Relentless Christ-focus: He directed attention away from himself to Jesus. • Heartfelt unworthiness: Even the humble task of untying sandals felt too lofty when it involved the Messiah. • Faithful completion: “As John was completing his course…”—he stayed on assignment until it was finished. Scriptural Echoes of the Same Humility • John 1:20-27—“I am not the Christ… I am the voice.” • Matthew 3:11—“He who comes after me is mightier than I.” • John 3:30—“He must increase; I must decrease.” • Philippians 2:3-5—esteem others above self, have Christ’s mindset. • James 4:6—God gives grace to the humble. Life Lessons for Today • Identity rooted in Christ, not platform or popularity. • Redirect applause: give glory back to the Lord whenever praise comes. • Serve in tasks that feel “beneath” us—nothing is beneath the servant of Jesus. • Finish the race God assigns; faithfulness matters more than fanfare. • Keep a low view of self and a high view of Christ to guard against pride’s subtle creep. Patterns of Humble Leadership 1. Submit to God’s timetable—John stepped aside when Jesus arrived (John 3:26-30). 2. Speak truth, not self-promotion—he proclaimed repentance, not reputation. 3. Accept decreasing visibility—it is healthy when Christ’s fame eclipses ours. 4. Celebrate others’ success—John rejoiced at the Bridegroom’s voice (John 3:29). Cultivating John-Like Humility • Daily confession of Christ’s supremacy. • Regular reflection on the cross—the ultimate display of servant-love (Philippians 2:8). • Gratitude journal: record ways God uses ordinary service for His glory. • Accountable friendships that gently confront pride (Proverbs 27:6). • Consistent prayer for a heart that delights to be second. Cautions Against Pride • Pride precedes destruction (Proverbs 16:18). • God resists the proud (James 4:6). • Self-exaltation steals joy and stifles ministry effectiveness. Living Out Humility • Remember whose sandals we are unworthy to untie—and whose Spirit now dwells in us. • Let every success become a platform to spotlight Jesus. • Finish our God-given course with the same simple testimony: “I am not that One—Christ is.” |
    |