R E A D

John 3:26-30: “So John’s disciples came to him and said, “Rabbi, the man you met on the other side of the Jordan River, the one you identified as the Messiah, is also baptizing people. And everybody is going to him instead of coming to us.” John replied, “No one can receive anything unless God gives it from heaven. You yourselves know how plainly I told you, ‘I am not the Messiah. I am only here to prepare the way for him.’  It is the bridegroom who marries the bride, and the bridegroom’s friend is simply glad to stand with him and hear his vows. Therefore, I am filled with joy at his success.  He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.”

R E F L E C T  |  R E S P O N D 

1. How would you have felt if you were one of John’s disciples at this point?
2. How does John the Baptist respond?
3. When have you felt like your influence was diminishing or was being downplayed?  When have you seen someone eclipse you in authority, responsibility or popularity?
4. How did you respond?