A Man Who Knew Himself

The following is the study guide for today's message, "A Man Who Knew Himself."

John 1:19-30

Open:

What comes to mind when most think of John the Baptist is a burly character wearing camel hide, eating bugs, and preaching an abrasive message.  There is truth to this image, but there is a far more important side to John the Baptist--one of humility, obedience and compassion.

John the Baptist models for us the way to please God and be content in doing so.

I. We Must Know Ourselves.

"Who art thou?"

1. John knew who he was not.

2. John knew who he was.

"I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness."

- He was just a voice; only a channel of truth.

How would you respond to that heart-rendering question?

II. We Must Know Our Place.

"He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me."

1. John was willing to lose himself in Jesus Christ.

2. Jesus said this is the only way to greatness (John 12:24-26).

Are you willing to lose yourself in Christ?

III. We Must Know Our Savior.

"Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!"

1. John recognized Jesus at the deepest level.

2. Do you know your Savior?

Close:

John the Baptist models the way to please God and be content in doing so. His life teaches security in knowing yourself, in serving Jesus, and salvation found only in Jesus.

Are you willing to allow Christ to control your life to the extent that you can be pleased with whatever He chooses for your life?