Definition: He must increase, but I [must] decrease.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down John 3:30 – “He must increase, but I [must] decrease.” It's a really profound and often misunderstood idea. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God’s relationship with humanity and how we relate to Him. It’s not about us decreasing in importance or value. Instead, it speaks of God increasing and then decreasing his influence. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “He must increase…” – This means God is actively working towards bringing people to Himself. He’s striving for a relationship with them. Think of it like planting a seed; it needs time and nurturing to grow into something beautiful. “…but I [must] decrease.” – This is the crucial part. It doesn't mean God becomes less important or valuable. Instead, God’s purpose is to draw people closer to Him. He wants to be noticed and known. Here’s how to think about it in a relatable way: Imagine a parent who loves their child very much. They want to spend time with that child, nurture them, and help them grow. The parent must sometimes spend less time with the child – perhaps they need to focus on other things or have other responsibilities. However, this doesn't mean the parent is less important; they’re still incredibly dedicated to their child’s well-being. The Significance: This verse highlights several key theological concepts: God’s Purpose: God has a purpose for humanity – to bring people to Himself. Relationship: It emphasizes the importance of a relationship with God, rather than simply being here or now . Conversion/Spiritual Growth: It speaks to the process of spiritual growth – moving towards a closer relationship with God. In essence, John 3:30 is a statement about God’s active work in bringing people to Himself. He's working to increase his presence and attract those who are receptive to Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with examples? Discuss the different interpretations of this passage? Connect it to a specific biblical story or concept?