Small Group Bible Study Guide: “He Must Increase, But I Must Decrease”---
### Bible Reading
John 3:22–30 (ESV)> 22 After this Jesus and his disciples went into the Judean countryside, and he remained there with them and was baptizing.
> 23 John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because water was plentiful there, and people were coming and being baptized
> 24 (for John had not yet been put in prison).
> 25 Now a discussion arose between some of John’s disciples and a Jew over purification.
> 26 And they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, he who was with you across the Jordan, to whom you bore witness—look, he is baptizing, and all are going to him.”
> 27 John answered, “A person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given him from heaven.
> 28 You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before him.’
> 29 The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is now complete.
> 30 He must increase, but I must decrease.”
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### Observation Questions
- What concern did John the Baptist’s disciples bring to him, and how did John respond? ([01:49])
- According to John, what is the source of any role or recognition a person receives? ([06:02])
- What metaphor does John use to describe his relationship to Jesus, and what does it mean? ([06:18])
- In verses 29–30, what is the connection between John’s joy and his willingness to decrease? ([06:18])
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### Interpretation Questions
- Why do you think John’s disciples felt unsettled or insecure when people started going to Jesus instead of John? ([01:49])
- What does John’s statement, “A person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given him from heaven,” reveal about his view of God’s sovereignty and his own role? ([06:02])
- How does John’s attitude toward change and transition challenge common attitudes in church or ministry today? ([10:52])
- What does it look like, practically, for someone to “decrease” so that Christ may “increase” in their life or ministry? ([08:20])
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### Application Questions
- Think about a time when you experienced a change in your role, either in church, work, or family. How did you respond emotionally? Did you feel insecure, relieved, or something else? What helped you process that change? ([02:20])
- Are there areas in your life where you find it hard to let go of control or recognition? What would it look like to “decrease” in those areas so that Jesus can be seen more clearly? ([08:20])
- The sermon mentioned the importance of empowering and mentoring the next generation. Is there someone younger or newer in faith whom you could encourage or support this month? What specific step could you take? ([10:52])
- When have you seen someone else step into a new role or take the spotlight? Was it easy or hard for you to celebrate their success? Why? ([06:18])
- The pastor shared stories about letting go—whether in ministry, family, or church traditions. Is there a tradition, habit, or position you’re holding onto that might need to be released for the sake of God’s work? ([16:19])
- John’s joy came from seeing Jesus’ ministry flourish, even if it meant stepping back. What would it look like for you to find joy in someone else’s growth or success this week? ([06:18])
- The sermon encouraged daily prayer for humility and a willingness to reflect Christ’s light, not our own. What is one practical way you can start your day with this mindset? ([21:43])
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Closing Prayer Suggestion: Pray together for humility, trust in God’s sovereignty, and the courage to empower others and reflect Christ’s light in every area of life.
