A lot of people quote John the Baptist saying that “He must increase, and I must decrease” (John 3:30), saying that we should diminish into oblivion. This is taken as how our character should be, especially in eastern cultures. It’s amusing that someone who doesn’t talk much, or is reticent, doesn’t come into public view, but minds his own business, is always the most “holy”. Needless to say, leaders don’t get that tag. Don’t get me wrong, it doesn’t matter what others think at all, but it is interesting how this mindset came in.
What did John the Baptist mean?
The words of John the Baptist were not about our individual selves diminishing so that Jesus could somehow become greater within us. John was specifically referring to the completion of his ministry, which was to prepare the way for Jesus (John 1:23). Now that Christ had arrived, John’s role was fading, and Jesus’ ministry was coming to the forefront.
As believers in Christ, we’ve been reborn into an entirely new life. We are described as “new creations” with new hearts and new spirits (2 Corinthians 5:17; Ezekiel 36:26). These new selves are not meant to decrease or become less significant. Instead, our new selves are designed to be fully revealed and celebrated, as we are united in spirit with God Himself (1 Corinthians 6:17).
Are we to be like Jesus?
If we mistakenly believe our role is to shrink or diminish, we overlook the powerful truth that God has shared His glory with us (John 17:22) and placed us here to radiate His presence—not to hide or diminish it. The Bible says As He is so are we in THIS WORLD (1 John 4:17), how can we be by diminishing? If diminishing is holiness, then I’d say go and sleep. Even the early church prayed for boldness.
Sadly, many teachings in the church today mistakenly portray believers as lowly, unworthy creatures who must diminish or stay out of the way. But the truth is far more empowering: our new selves should confidently grow and shine, fully embracing the magnificent identity God has graciously given us in Christ.
Be bold as a lion! Stand for the truth! Magnify Jesus!
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