Thoughts on J. the B.

John 3:22-26

In this passage we find John the Baptist and his disciples...well, baptizing. Jesus and his disciples join them, "because there was plenty of water, and people were constantly coming to be baptized" (v.23).
Then, "an argument developed between some of John's disciples...over the matter of ceremonial washing" (v.25). Translation, they started fighting over something so insignificant that the details are not even worth mentioning. Then, John's disciples see Jesus baptizing and complain to John that "everyone is going to him" (v. 26)

There are a lot of things wrong with this picture!
First problem: The people were constantly coming to be baptized...that's awesome! But here are John's disciples, the very people who were supposed to be performing the baptisms, and instead they are arguing about some religious rule? How sad that they were totally missing out on the life change right in front of them because they were so concerned about being right.
Second problem: They become jealous and prideful that everyone is going to get baptized by Jesus. Let's think about this...if I wanted to be baptized and I saw one group arguing with each other, and another group inviting and welcoming, well which one would I be more attracted to? No brainer.
Third problem: They totally fail to recognize the greatness of Jesus...the very people who were closest to John the Baptist and constantly hearing him talk about his mission to prepare the way for the one who is greater...and now here it is and they miss it.

They are too focused on themselves, concerned with who has the "right" way and the better baptism, and they are completely missing the point of why they are there. And as a result, they turn people away, people who have shown up and are ready for a life change.

*Where is your attitude turning people away?
*Where are you missing the point of why you are here?
Maybe the check out clerk at the grocery store, or the waiter at the restaurant?
Maybe the person you cut off on your way to work this morning who got a great view of your Jesus bumper sticker?
Maybe on the weekend in the way you talk to your volunteers?
Maybe on the weekend when there are lost people all around you who you don't say hi to, or even smile at because you are so focused on what you are "getting out of it" or your task at hand?