Haman was a man who was so full of himself. When King Xerxes sought his advice about the best way to honor someone in whom the king was delighted, Haman immediately presumed that he was the person that the king wanted to honor. So he recommended an elaborate ceremony. But when the king instructed him to implement his recommendation for someone else’s benefit, he was devastated. (Esther 6.1-14)
Haman’s presumption about his importance, and being preoccupied with his own honor, is an example of what to avoid. It is the exact opposite of what Christ himself demonstrated (Philippians 2.5-11). And the follower of Jesus Christ is called to do the same. “Gospel humility is not thinking more of myself or less of myself, but thinking of myself less” (Tim Keller).
If the gospel story tells of the Lord who humbled himself for the sake of others, the one who testifies to the gospel must also seek to adopt the same mindset as he or she seeks to accomplish his task. “To be a witness is not to bring the self to the center of the story; it is to be faithful to the events and to bring attention to the work of God” (Scripture Union).
In this world, recognition and receiving proper credit is such a big deal. But, as a pastor, should it matter to me whether or not people remember my preaching—that is, my “performance” or “presentation” of the gospel? Or should it be enough that the truth of God’s word is preached and received? I should take to heart the reminder that “faithful preachers are forgettable preachers” (H. B. Charles, Jr.).
Perhaps this reminder may extend to all forms of Christian testimony. All that should matter is that Christ is honored in everything that I may say or do. Whether I will be remembered for good words or good deeds is not as important as people being touched by the gospel through me. So, when I share my personal testimony, who is at the center of the story? Me, or Christ?
John the Baptizer knew exactly what was important: “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3.30). Like John, we need to become an invisible witness.
—Keith Y. Jainga