He Must Increase, I Must Decrease

He Must Increase, I Must Decrease (John 3:22-36)
Introduction: Review
"Our gospel proves itself by what it accomplishes, as redeemed people from every walk of life, delivered from every type of sin, prove the regenerating and keeping power of the Christ of whom the Bible speaks." (H. A. Ironside, Random Reminiscences, http://www.wholesomewords.org/etexts/ironside/irsrem4.html).

Exposition
Context: A jealous spirit produced a theological dispute

1. A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven (v27-28)

"My work, my ministry, my life are what God's intended them to be. And I am content with the place God has assigned me."

2. He must increase, I must decrease (v29-30)

It is necessary. It is unavoidable. And it is right. It is wonderful.

Application
"He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much" (Luke 16:10).

What has heaven been pleased to give you? Are you doing that faithfully?

Are you saying, "O God, I could be much more faithful, if only you gave me different circumstances?" God replies, "Who gave you those circumstances?"

Maybe you've got to learn to be content with whatever heaven gives you. Maybe that change is much more important than any other change you want in your life.