After the Passover Jesus left Jerusalem and began to baptize. The disciples knew the need for brokenness before rebirth, and that without confession of sin salvation is not effected. Baptism for the pardon of sins symbolized brokenness, by which the penitent expresses his longing to enter the New Covenant with God.
The Baptist had changed the venue of his ministry moving to Aenon at the northern end of the Jordan valley. They came to John and poured out their hearts to him; so he baptized them, preparing them to meet Jesus.
Jesus did not return to Galilee directly after the Passover, but began to baptize the penitent elsewhere in the land. With a greater authority, more people came to him than to John. As a result a dispute arose between the two parties. The issue was: Which of the two leaders is better for the task of cleansing from sin? Which of the two is closer to God? Here was a vital question, because they contemplated devoting their lives to the teacher of their ultimate choice. Have you considered, brother, the way of your devotion?
The Baptist resisted a great temptation. He did not envy Jesus’ striking success, but realized that his own ministry had limits. He humbly admitted, "Mere man cannot undertake such a good work on his own. Only if God has granted him the power, blessing and the fruit, can he do so." We, on the contrary, boast of ourselves, our spiritual knowledge, prayers, and fine speeches. If you should receive a spiritual gift, that is from God. You are still a slave, unworthy even if you did all that God requires. The Baptist stayed humble, nor did he claim abilities beyond his capacity, but glorified God alone.
Again John witnessed to his disciples. He was not the Messiah. He may have expected a triumphal entry into Jerusalem, but this did not happen. Jesus simply kept baptizing. So the Baptist was puzzled, yet remained obedient. He was just Christ’s forerunner to prepare the way.
John remained faithful to the revelation he had been granted. He testified that Jesus is the bridegroom, who treated the penitent, cleansed by the waters of baptism as his bride. Today the Spirit creates this spiritual unity, so that Paul can say, "We are members of the body of Christ, and he is our Head; we are one with him." Christ is no longer our judge but our Savior, the bridegroom. The joyous picture of a wedding shows us our hope in Christ.
The Baptist was standing afar, rejoicing in the growth of the Church. But he stood beside Jesus, rather than among his assembly. He confessed to being a faithful friend. While he remained isolated in the wilderness, Jesus entered directly into the capital, where he performed signs and preached his sermons. The Baptist observed the advance of the Kingdom and rejoiced. The voice and prominence of the Bridegroom pleased him. News of Christ’s successes were heavenly music in him. Thus the tenderness of Christ softened the coarse Baptist during the closing days of his service. He rejoiced as partner in the wedding feast.
John was ready to die, not anxious to widen his circle of followers. He preferred to decrease and vanish, so that the Church might grow.
Reader, who is it that heads your meetings? Does each strive against the other for leadership, or do you give way to others, to be least that Christ may grow mighty in you? Join with John and say, "He must increase, and I decrease."