This was John’s testimony when the Jewish leaders sent priests and Temple assistants from Jerusalem to ask John, “Who are you?” He came right out and said, “I am not the Messiah.” [John 1:19-20 NLT]
Luke tells us that "Everyone was expecting the Messiah to come soon, and they were eager to know whether John might be the Messiah." What was it about the Baptist that seemed messianic to so many? Surely he had a prophetic message and appearance. He preached a strong message of repentance and forgiveness. He stood up to both religious and civil leaders. He simply seemed messianic.
John seemed to fit the expectation. Yet he himself understood that he was the forerunner, not the Messiah. John knew who he was and who he was not. I love this about John. As one who has succumbed to visions of grandeur, I can testify of the humility required to defeat such delusions. And in his case, John showed tremendous humility as he watched his ministry decrease and the ministry of the Messiah increase.
I am prideful Lord. Teach me to defeat pride and walk humbly with you.
... this devotion is part of a series about John the Baptist.
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