What can we learn from John's obedience in John 1:28 for our lives? Setting the Scene—John 1:28 “These things took place in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing.” Why Bethany Beyond the Jordan Matters • The location was obscure, away from Jerusalem’s religious spotlight. • God had already revealed through Isaiah 40:3 that a “voice crying in the wilderness” would prepare the way. John’s presence there is exact, literal fulfillment. • Remote Bethany created space for genuine repentance, free from temple crowds and human acclaim. Lessons from John’s Quiet, Geographic Obedience • Obedience is often tied to place. ⟶ Acts 8:26–40 shows Philip also being sent to a specific road; blessing followed. • Great spiritual impact can begin in unnoticed settings. ⟶ Zechariah 4:10, “Who despises the day of small things?” • Staying where God assigns us signals trust. John remained until Jesus arrived (John 1:29–31). Faithful to the Task Assigned • John’s call: “Make straight the way for the Lord” (John 1:23). He fulfilled it without expanding or altering it. • He baptized multitudes yet pointed them to Another (John 1:26–27). • His life models Psalm 115:1—“Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to Your name give glory.” Practical Takeaways for Us Today 1. Embrace your current “Bethany.” – Workplace, classroom, neighborhood—no place is too small for God’s purposes. 2. Measure success by faithfulness, not visibility. – Colossians 3:23–24 reminds that the Lord, not people, rewards our labor. 3. Speak truth consistently, even when culture shifts. – John preached repentance regardless of audience (Luke 3:7–14). 4. Keep pointing to Jesus instead of self. – Like John, delight when Christ increases (John 3:30). 5. Stay until you’re clearly moved. – John didn’t relocate until arrested (Matthew 4:12); movement followed God’s timetable, not restlessness. Encouragement in Remaining Steadfast • God sees hidden obedience (Matthew 6:4). • The wilderness can become the very platform where Christ is revealed to others through us. • Your present faithfulness might be the bridge for someone else to encounter Jesus tomorrow, just as John’s riverbank ministry set the scene for the Lamb of God to be introduced. |
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