October 22 Holding Too Hard

John 3:25-28 An argument developed between some of John’s disciples and a certain Jew over the matter of ceremonial washing. 26 They came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan – the one you testified about – well, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him.” 27 To this John replied, “A man can receive only what is given him from heaven. 28 You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Christ but am sent ahead of him.’”
 
THE Baptist’s disciples conflicted with the Jews and with Jesus. First, some Jews had come to them to essentially ask, “Why should we be baptized by John?” They continued with their argument by saying, “We already have water purification rites in our law. Why should we be baptized? This is for Gentiles, isn’t it?” In addition to the Jews, there were also other splinter groups who practiced their own ceremonial washing. “What,” the wanted to know, “is the point of another ritual?”
   Second, Jesus’ new ministry seemed to be copying and replacing John’s. Why should this new rabbi, especially one John had baptized, baptize also? They expressed, it seems, frustration and jealousy that “everyone is going to him.” How many preaching, baptizing rabbis did the Jews need?
   Then the prophet responds to teach his disciples and us another valuable discipleship lesson. With, “A man can receive only what is given him from heaven.” John reminds his followers of his call. John’s ministry has happened because heaven has called him to it. Heaven – God – has not called him to minister in competition with Jesus but to be “a voice of one calling in the desert, “Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’” (Mark 1:3)
   John reminds his frustrated students to witness his submission, “I am not the Christ.” Change is among them, and they must be willing to follow the Messiah, not the prophet who pointed to him. John’s work has been a preparing work. His ministry is not about final things, but God called him to be both the final voice of the Old Testament prophets and the first voice of the Gospel. He has been appointed to be a messenger of things to come. Soon it will be time for him to leave. Until that day, he will continue baptizing to prepare the Jews for Jesus while he points the Jews to Jesus.
   As Jesus’ disciples now, we are always called to be beginning voices for people to hear of Jesus and his gospel. We may also be called to be the next disciple to continue a work another has begun. Wherever we find ourselves, we always point to Jesus.
 
Prayer: Than you, Spirit, for calling me to be Jesus’ disciple. I pray I know and am faithful to my place and purpose. Amen.