December 29, 2017 Friday

19   This was John’s testimony when the Jewish leaders sent priests and Temple assistants from Jerusalem to ask John, “Who are you?” 20   He came right out and said, “I am not the Messiah.” 21  “ Well then, who are you?” they asked. “Are you Elijah?” “No,” he replied. “Are you the Prophet we are expecting?” “No.” 22  “ Then who are you? We need an answer for those who sent us. What do you have to say about yourself?” 23   John replied in the words of the prophet Isaiah: “ I am a voice shouting in the wilderness, ‘ Clear the way for the LORD’s coming!’” 24   Then the Pharisees who had been sent 25   asked him, “If you aren’t the Messiah or Elijah or the Prophet, what right do you have to baptize?” 26   John told them, “I baptize with water, but right here in the crowd is someone you do not recognize. 27   Though his ministry follows mine, I’m not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandal.” 28   This encounter took place in Bethany, an area east of the Jordan River, where John was baptizing.   John 1:19-28 NLT

            It is believed that the first Confession of Faith for those who were Followers of the Way was simply “Jesus is Lord”.  Later as we received the name Christians we continued that Confession of Faith until it was expanded to clarify and unify God’s revelation to us.

            To me this confession begs the second part which is if Jesus is Lord than I am not!  God is God and I am not!  The question is not just who God is but “Who are you?”  

            The religious leaders wanted to know who John the baptizer was so they either understand who he was or to be able to argue against him.  The intensity of their questioning reveals that they not only do not know who John is but also who they are!

            They basically say that if John is not the person they think he is then they have the right to tell John what he can and cannot do.  THIS IS GOD’S JOB! 

            Our arrogance is so strong that John warns them they will miss the One he precedes and the One whose ministry is to be so incredible that it will reach beyond his and even bless John.

            John the baptizer reminds us those who are closest to God most understand their place with God and understand the wondrous glory of God!

            May you like John understand, “I’m not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandal”.