Read John 1:6-9
6 God sent a man, John the Baptist, 7 to tell about the light so that everyone might believe because of his testimony. 8 John himself was not the light; he was simply a witness to tell about the light. 9 The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. (NLT)
Discover
1. What was John the Baptist sent to do?
2. What word is used to describe his role (verse 8)?
3. How did John differ from Jesus?
Respond
Throughout this month, we’ll read more about John the Baptist. Today we get a glimpse into his purpose. Specifically, he came to give a witness testimony of who Jesus was. This required humility to acknowledge that he himself wasn’t the light; he was sent to tell others about the true Light. John’s mission led many to believe in Jesus as the Son of God.
If we were given John’s role, many of us would find it difficult. In an “all about me” world, we tend to seek credit for ourselves or take on a savior complex, thinking it’s up to us to fix every problem. While we’re called to be difference makers in the world, it’s not about us. It’s about pointing people to the true Light who came to bring life.
How have you viewed your role as a witness? Are there situations where you’ve tried to be someone’s savior rather than pointing them to the Savior? Confess anything that comes to mind. Thank God for the privilege of telling others about Him, and commit to doing so this Christmas season.
Want to go deeper? Read this article for three ways to guard your witness this Christmas.
*TPCC does not necessarily endorse all “Want to go deeper” sources. They are simply meant to be a helpful tool.