When the End is the Beginning

N.T.#703 "When the End is the Beginning"

Dec. 29, 2025 

John 3-Part 7 

LET IT GLOW

In chapter 4, John continues to write about the ministry of Christ in Galilee. Hey, what happened to John the Baptist?  John was the forerunner of Jesus. He preached to the Pharisees, Sadducees, multitudes, tax-collectors, soldiers, and to Herod Antipas. You may recall the situation which sent John to jail. He condemned the mess in the palace, resulting in John's head on a platter. (Matthew 14) Before that, John proclaimed Jesus to be the Son of God and even baptized Jesus. They were cousins, you know. Yet Jesus didn't go see John before his death. He sent word reassuring John. It was the end of John's ministry and the beginning of Jesus' ministry. John did a fantastic job, don't you think?

I like how Swindoll puts John's purpose-to clear the way, prepare the way, and get out of the way, Jesus is The Way, The Truth, The Life. No one comes to the Father except through Jesus. (John 14:6)

Have you come to Jesus? Have your loved ones come to Jesus?

LET IT GROW

To be great like John the Baptist, we glean principles from his life:

1. All leaders serve at God's pleasure. (3:27)
2. Joy comes from serving God, not from one's title or job description. (verses 28-29)
3. Genuine humility calls attention to Christ, not to self. (verses 30-34)

John clutched nothing and released everything to the Lord: his following, his popularity, his will. John learned that God owns it all and deserves all the glory; therefore, we find the greatest joy in fulfilling our purpose: to glorify God, and fully to enjoy Him forever. 

[Swindoll's Insights on John]

We might think what a horrible way to die, but John did not complain, for he knew he was going to heaven.

LET IT GO

Bitterness, jealousy, envy-give it to God.

Let Him change your heart.

Glory to God!