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.”
Joy Complete!
What completes your joy? If we asked the common man on the street there would be a variety of answers as there were the number asked. Man has all types of vices, objects, destinations and/or power positions that give him joy. In the above passage we are taking some sentences out of John the Baptist’s speech for his disciples. John the Baptist was being asked about the ministry of Jesus and about his followers leaving him to follow Jesus. His most devoted followers were envious of this and wanted him to speak into their lives about it. The above sentences capture John’s heart and character. He compares himself to the best man at the wedding. He job was to make sure the groom (Jesus) and the bride (those who will believe in Jesus) are brought together. This and ONLY this fulfills his joy. Note what one commentator writes:
(Underst Bible NT 18V) :The real answer to the implied question of John’s disciples comes in verse 30. What they see happening in Judea is historically inevitable: Jesus’ stature will grow, while John’s will diminish. But at the same time, it is what John wants, for his parting words are those of any disciple willing to become small like a child in order to gain the kingdom (cf. Matt. 18:3–4; 23:12; John 3:5). They are intended as words to repeat and to make one’s own.”
We are to make this our life mission. He is to be the Groom. We are to get our greatest joy when we see believers come to Him; run to Him!! That should complete our joy. All else is temporary. We will only have true joy when believers are united with Christ. Notice what before the angels when this happens:
Luke 15:10 (ESV Strong's)
10 Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
This is what should make our joy complete!!!
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