I’ve been reading through John’s Gospel the last couple weeks, and I wanted to share something that I absolutely love.
John the Baptist was somewhat of a celebrity. News about him spread, and people traveled to see him. He gained followers and the scripture tells us that he had disciples. But when it came down to it, John used His influence to point people to Jesus.
In John 1:35-37 we get a quick glimpse of what it’s like to use our influence to help people follow Jesus:
The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples, and he looked at Jesus as he walked by and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus.
I wonder how John felt when his disciples immediately left him to follow Jesus?
If I put myself in his shoes I can feel my flesh react. “Don’t leave me! Don’t you want to follow me?!”
I wonder how long John’s disciples were with him? Did John wrestle with his emotions at how quickly his disciples left him to follow Jesus? Was there any feeling of betrayal or loss or jealousy? These are things my flesh thinks about.
However, when I read these verses my soul rejoices!
I’m inspired at John’s example of humility and His understanding of his own role! He didn’t hold onto his followers, but as soon as he had the chance he pointed his disciples to the one worth following!
I see the role of worship leader in a similar light. I don’t want people to follow me. I don’t want people to praise the worship team. I want people to behold the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords, our glorious Savior Jesus Christ! I rejoice when I see the church beholding Jesus as we worship through song, it’s one of the greatest experiences in life!
All of us have our circles of influence where we can lead others to follow Jesus. So what are we doing with that influence?
Am I trying to get people to follow Kyle, or am I leading others to follow Jesus? Are you trying to get your own followers, or are you leading people to follow Jesus?
Don’t underestimate your influence and how God can use you to lead others to follow Jesus!
My RightNow Media pick of the month is a sermon series from Matt Chandler that can supplement what we’ve been learning on Sunday mornings about the gifts of the Spirit.
Looking forward to Sunday!
- Pastor Kyle