John 3:27-30

AUV(i) 27 John replied to them, “A person cannot receive anything, unless it has been given to him from [God in] heaven. 28 You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Christ [i.e., God’s specially chosen one] but [rather] that I was sent [by God] ahead of Him.’ 29 The one who has the bride is the groom; but the best man, who stands up with him and listens to him [take his vows], is very happy when he hears him speak. So, [now] my joy is complete [i.e. over hearing about Jesus’ ministry]. 30 He [i.e., Jesus] must increase [in importance and influence], while I must decrease.”