John 3:22-36 | What is a lesson for the original audience?

Other than the already forementioned lesson that Jesus is better is the lesson surrounding the promotion of Jesus over the promotion of self. If we look at history, specifically Israel history, we will see an undertone of this lesson. Whenever Israel tried to make a name for themselves, they always found themselves floundering. However, when they lived simply to glorify God, the Lord exalted them and made them better than the other nations. They would conquest in war. They would flourish in provision. They were taken care of. When other nations were caught in famines and becoming destitute, Israel would be thriving. However, once they forgot how they got to the place they got to, in glorifying the Lord, they would become self-forwarding once again.

What John is demonstrating here is truly an attitude of humility. His life is not intended to make his own name great. He understands that he came as a forerunner to make another great. His mission is not for himself, but for the Lord. Given his disciples' response to Jesus' ministry, this was a very important lesson for them to hear. It was not any more uncommon then as it is now for people to try to make their own name great. But the intent of John the Baptist was not to forward his own name.

I cannot help but think of this being a theme throughout the early church as well. Consider Simon the Sorcerer in Acts 8. After receiving the Lord, he travels with the apostles and witnesses them impart the Holy Spirit to the people who hadn't yet been baptized with the Holy Spirit. Simon turns to them and tries to buy this power. Peter's response is telling.

20 But Peter said to him, “Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money! 21 You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God. 22 Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.”
-Acts 8:20-23

Simon wanted not to forward the name of Christ with the Spirit of God. Rather, he intended to forward his own name. In short, the methodology of those who live for self forwarding offer the antithesis of what John offered. "He must decrease that I may increase." Unfortunately, this is the lifestyle of many who proclaim belief. The lesson that this section gives us is truly one of humility. He must increase. I must decrease.

What lesson are you seeing for the original audience?