-How are you wired: Do you like a stage or prefer the crowd?

-Have you ever had a moment where someone else got credit for something you did? What was your reaction?

As we continue our journey through the Gospel of John, we see a tension beginning to build between the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus. As Jesus’ ministry grows, John the Baptist’s followers become concerned with his status in the region beginning to change.

Read John 3:22-26

-What are John’s disciples concerned about?

-Can you think of a time when someone you knew was doing much better than you in their career, their marriage, their finances, etc. How did that make you feel? Did you have a desire to compete with that person?

Read John 3:27-30

-What is John’s response to their concern?

-What does it mean that “A person can receive only what is given them from heaven”? What does that mean for us in our giftings?

The desire for credit and renown is something that every person deals with (in different ways), yet sometimes the credit/adoration can be pushed upon you.

Read Acts 14:8-15

-What are Paul and Barnabas doing? What is the people’s response to their ability?

-How do they respond to the people’s worship of them?

You may feel like you don’t have the ability of Paul and Barnabas, or a literal stage that may tempt you to be prideful, but God has given you different areas of influence in your life where you have an opportunity to choose humbleness and make much of Jesus.

-What are some platforms/areas of influence in your life?

-What is a practical way you can make Jesus greater and yourself less this week?