27 John answered and said, "A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven. 28 You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ,' but, I have been sent before Him.' 29 He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom's voice. Therefore this joy of mine is fulfilled. 30 He must increase, but I must decrease.—John 3:27-30
I love this passage because for me it makes everything so simple! Selfish ambition, intrigue and politics abound in this world even in some churches. Watching it is exhausting, but being a part of it distracts us from our God-given ministry...to point others to the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.
28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."—Matthew 11:28-30
John reminds his disciples that he is a friend of the bridegroom...not the bridegroom...the bride is not his. As his disciples left him to go to Jesus, John’s joy was full because it was proof that He was walking in those very works that God had prepared beforehand for him. He was fulfilling his ministry. We, also, are Jesus’ friend and are to point others whether saved or unsaved always to Him, our Bridegroom. It is, therefore, also our joy to see those we point to Him go to Him. May John’s words, “He must increase, but I must decrease be my own joyful song.
And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.—Colossians 3:17
6 For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of His government and peace
There will be no end,—Isaiah 9:6-7
