Humility in Serving Christ

Tetteh-Annor Larbi | January 29, 2024 | John 1:19-28

KEY VERSE:

He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, “I am not the Messiah. John 1:20 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

In John 1:20, we witness John the Baptist's profound humility as he declares, "I am not the Messiah." This statement encapsulates a powerful lesson in humility, especially in serving Christ.

John's humility is striking, considering his significant role as the forerunner of Jesus Christ. Despite his prominence and influence, he does not seek to elevate himself or claim a status beyond his appointed role. Instead, he directs attention away from himself and towards the true Messiah, recognising his limitations and the surpassing greatness of Jesus.

Humility in serving Christ means recognizing that our talents, abilities, and opportunities all come from Him. It means acknowledging that any success or impact we have is ultimately attributed to His grace and power working through us. Humility in serving Christ also involves a willingness to set aside our agendas and preferences in order to follow His will wholeheartedly. It means prioritizing the needs of others above our desires and seeking to glorify Christ in all that we do.

Ultimately, humility in serving Christ is not about diminishing ourselves but exalting Him. It is about recognising His supremacy and submitting ourselves fully to His lordship. As we strive to follow John the Baptist's example of humility, may we echo his words in our own lives: "He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:30).

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

Is your life reflecting the humility required to follow Christ? Are you projecting yourself and your ministry instead of Christ? Are the values you represent pointing to Christ as your reason for following them? Realign your goals and values to project Christ and not yourself.

PRAYER:

Father, I thank you for the privilege of being your child. And thank you also for the privilege to serve in your vineyard. Help me to realign my goals and values to exult Christ, and like John be able to say, that He may increase, but I may decrease. Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!    

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DAILY word study: MESSIAH

The term "Messiah" in the Greek text is translated from "Χριστός" (Christos)."Χριστός" (Christos) is a title and means "anointed one."

In the context of John 1:20, the religious authorities ask John the Baptist if he is the Messiah. The question reflects the Jewish anticipation of a prophesied figure, the Messiah, who would be anointed by God to fulfil specific roles, including the redemption of Israel.

The term "Messiah" was laden with messianic expectations rooted in Jewish scripture, especially prophecies in books like Isaiah and Daniel. The Messiah was expected to be a deliverer, a king, and a figure of divine authority.

John's response in John 1:20-21 denies that he is the Messiah. Instead, he identifies himself as the voice crying in the wilderness, preparing the way for the Lord. The question about the Messiah is pivotal in introducing the theme of messianic expectation and fulfilment in the Gospel of John. It sets the stage for the revelation that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah, the Christ.

Reflections:

Reflecting on the Jewish anticipation of the Messiah, how does the concept of Jesus as the fulfilled Messiah impact your understanding of God's promises and their fulfilment in your life?