He Must Increase, But I Must Decrease (2)
This article explores John 3:30 ("He must increase, but I must decrease") as a theological and practical principle for Christian discipleship. Smit argues that Christ's preeminence is necessary because of God's sovereign will, Christ's identity as the Bridegroom of the church, and the gathering of His bride, illustrating how believers should diminish self-focus in favor of exalting Christ.
Previous article in this series: June 2013, p. 404. John the Baptist understood and believed that transition was a "must." Christ "must" increase, and he "must" decrease. What does that mean? First, the transition from John the Baptist to Jesus was necessary because that was the will of God. It was the will of God that once the forerunner's work was completed, then Christ would fulfill His earthly ministry. God's purpose was not for John to continue His ministry side-by-side with Jesus for...
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