John the Baptist

John the Baptist had a hard time persuading his disciples to detach themselves from him. John knew that Jesus was the Messiah, the one who he had prepared the way for. John knew he himself was not the Messiah and wanted his disciples to follow Christ. So, in order for them to know for themselves Jesus was the true Messiah, he had them ask Christ for his identity for their own identification.

“A man did not have to utterly forsake and reject John in order to accept Jesus. But Jesus was the Son of God, and John was his prophet. There is no equal comparison between the two,” as taken from the New Testament Manuel. John knew exactly what he needed to do in this life, and that was to prepare the way for the Lord. John the Baptist had a great love for Christ, and you know this because of his service for the Savior.

John the Baptist is considered among the greatest prophets according to Joseph Smith becaue:

1. John lead and prepared the way for the Lord. No other man was given that much trust before, ever, and since then!
2. No on else had the honor of baptizing the son of Man, it was required of John to baptized Jesus.
3. He was the only one to administer the powers of Heaven on the earth, because Christ was not able to yet.

John was given so much power, and was trusted by the Father to perform such tasks on the earth.

John 3:30

“He must increase, but I must decrease”

I believe this just show the pure love John the Baptist had for Christ. John knew his place, and he knew what he was sent here to do. He loved Christ, and knew he was God’s Son, and sent on the earth to redeem the souls of men.

As we apply this scripture to our lives, I think it’s important to remember why we are sent to this earth. We’re here to be tried and tested. It is important that we remember Christ always, and for the sacrifice he made just for us. I’m grateful to know that Christ loves me, and literally died for me on the cross, so that he could create the path to return to live with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ again.