Dec 14 Divine Service

He must increase, but I must decrease.

John 3:30

Where are we in the Bible? 

Chapter 3 begins with Jesus’ interaction with Nicodemus. Through their conversation, Jesus makes it clear to him that baptism with water and the Spirit is a prerequisite to “see” and “enter” the kingdom of God. Following their conversation, the scene shifts to the land of Judea (3:22-23), where we find Jesus’ disciples baptizing (4:1-2). At the same time, John the Baptist was also baptizing in a place called Aenon, which was likely located west of the Jordan River, near Samaria.

John the Baptist’s disciples came to realize that more people were going to Jesus’ disciples to be baptized than were coming to John (3:26). Sensing their concern over this, John reminds them that he is not the Christ, but rather the one sent to prepare the way (3:28). It’s at this point that John makes it clear that his purpose has been fulfilled, and that Christ is now supreme. His purpose was to “prepare the way of the Lord” (Isaiah 40:3, see also John 1:22-26).

What are the key themes based on the Bible verse, its context, and the DSG? 

1. Acknowledging Christ’s supremacy

2. Responding to Christ’s supremacy

3. Anticipating Christ’s supremacy

Foundational readings: John 3:22-36, Colossians 1:15-18  | Catechism 1.2.5.2, 3.4.1

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December sermon theme connection article click here to read

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