What can we learn from John's humility in John 1:19? Setting the Scene: John 1:19 “And this was John’s testimony when the Jews of Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him, ‘Who are you?’” (John 1:19) The Humble Heart Behind the Testimony - John is being examined by the religious elite—people who could advance or hinder his ministry—yet he offers a “testimony,” not a résumé. His focus is on God’s message, not personal credentials. - Even before he speaks, his willingness to submit to questioning shows a servant’s spirit (cf. 1 Peter 5:5–6). - The verse calls him simply “John,” not “prophet,” “teacher,” or “celebrity.” Scripture highlights the messenger’s anonymity to elevate the One he points to (John 1:23). Marks of John’s Humility We Can Imitate - Refuses self-promotion • He later says, “I am not the Christ” (John 1:20) and “He must increase; I must decrease” (John 3:30). - Positions himself as a witness, not the attraction • A witness testifies to what he has seen; the spotlight belongs to Another (Acts 1:8). - Accepts scrutiny without defensiveness • Proverbs 27:2: “Let another praise you, and not your own mouth.” - Anchors his identity in God’s calling, not public opinion • Luke 7:28 shows Jesus honoring John, yet John seeks no such honor for himself. Practical Takeaways for Today - When confronted with “Who are you?” moments—job interviews, social media bios, ministry introductions—choose to showcase Christ’s work over personal achievements. - Welcome accountability. A humble spirit does not bristle when others probe motives or doctrine (2 Corinthians 13:5). - Measure success by faithfulness to God’s call, not crowd size or reputation (1 Corinthians 4:1–2). - Remember that genuine authority flows from pointing people to Jesus, not from accumulating titles (Matthew 23:8–12). Closing Challenge Like John, live so that when people ask, “Who are you?” the first thing that comes to mind is a testimony about Jesus Christ. |
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