11/9/25, Melrose Community Church, Sunday Service

This powerful exploration of John 3:22-36 reveals one of the most profound lessons in humility found anywhere in Scripture. We journey alongside John the Baptist during a pivotal moment when his disciples come to him with jealous concerns—Jesus is baptizing people too, and crowds are flocking to Him instead. What unfolds is a masterclass in godly leadership and selfless devotion. John's response cuts through our natural human tendencies toward comparison and competition: 'He must increase, but I must decrease.' This isn't just a catchy phrase; it's a revolutionary way of living that challenges everything our culture teaches us about success and significance. The passage invites us to examine our own hearts—how do we respond when others are blessed? When someone with less experience gets promoted? When another church grows while ours struggles? John demonstrates that true spiritual maturity means celebrating God's work in others' lives, recognizing that every blessing comes from heaven, and finding our deepest joy not in our own recognition but in seeing Christ lifted high. The sermon unpacks four key observations about humility: accepting our mission with grace, responding as leaders with servant hearts, celebrating God's blessings in others' lives, and consistently introducing people to Christ rather than ourselves. This message confronts our self-centered nature and calls us to a radical reorientation—one where Christ's glory matters more than our comfort, and His increase brings us genuine joy.