What is Next? (FUMCWP)
It is a watchword for the Christian ages. There has never been a follower of Jesus who has not at some time been tempted to displace him. The Baptist of the Fourth Gospel knows the folly of the move.
C. S. Lewis once put it, to play great parts without pride and small parts without shame.
At the very end of the gospel (21:20–23), Peter is reminded that what counts is not comparing yourself with other people and seeing whether your status is higher or lower than theirs, but simply following Jesus.
How can we be more effective and “successful” as Christians, or in Christian ministry and lifestyle?
Oh me? No, I’m nothing special. I don’t have any particularly wonderful gifts. I’m not that important. You might not notice it, but I have my hang-ups too. I mess up. I’m not the one that is really interesting. Actually, that’s someone else.
That is when we will be effective and joyful—because we will be able to actually, truly, compellingly point others to the Christ.
He must increase, but I must decrease—So they who are now, like John, burning and shining lights, must (if not suddenly eclipsed) like him gradually decrease, while others are increasing about them; as they in their turns, grew up, amidst the decays of the former generation. Let us know how to set, as well as how to rise; and let it comfort our declining days, to trace in those who are likely to succeed us in our work, the openings of yet greater usefulness.
“He must increase, but I must decrease:” that is, He must give, but I must receive; He must be glorified, but I must confess.