July 8, 2019 – John 1:15-16

 John testified about Him when he shouted to the crowds, “This is the one I was talking about when I said, ‘Someone is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for He existed long before me.’” From His abundance, we have all received one gracious blessing after another. John 1:15-16.

One of the characteristics of John is his humility.  Even before John was born, he recognized Jesus as the Messiah. It is recorded in Luke 2:41-42 – At the sound of Mary’s greeting, Elizabeth’s child leaped within her, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Elizabeth gave a glad cry and exclaimed to Mary, “God has blessed you above all women, and your Child is blessed. 

John the Baptist’s purpose would be ^‘to tell about the light so that everyone might believe because of his testimony. John himself was not the light; he was simply a witness to tell about the light. The One who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.’ John 1:7-9.  

The greatest among you must be a servant. But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Matthew 23:11-12.  These words of Jesus begin with the essence of love.  For without God’s love for others in our hearts, we cannot be His true servant. 

The characteristics of a servant of God comes through patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, and faithfulness.  What is the abundance of blessings we receive as His servant?  Love, Joy, and Peace. O Lord my God, how great You are! 

For the law was given through Moses, but God’s unfailing love and faithfulness came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. But the unique One, who is himself God, is near to the Father’s heart. He has revealed God to us. John 1:17-18