1. Who are you? (19-23)

John became popular. The Jewish leaders, priests and authorities asked who he was? John said clearly, "I am not the Messiah." He talked about himself less and less: "I am not"; "No!"; "I am a mere voice in the wilderness." He found his mission from the prophecy of Isaiah to make straight the way for the Messiah. We should find our identity and mission from God. As God's chosen shepherd and missionary we should talk less and less about ourselves to lead people more and more to the Messiah, Jesus!

2. He is the one (24-28)

Still they asked, "Why then do you baptize?" John baptized with water to prepare sinners to repent their sins. It was to lead them to the Messiah whom the people still didn't know. His purpose was to reveal and exalt Jesus who comes after him. John even said he was not worthy to be his slave. What a beautiful example John showed as a servant of God's word who should exalt Jesus only!