How can you tell the difference between a charlatan and a genuine preacher for the Gospel? I think that John gives us a pretty good hint here. John preaches to the people that they should not prize their earthly possessions over people, they should treat each other fairly, and that he is not the Messiah. That last point is where so many televangelists, teachers, and preachers in our society miss the mark. John has ever opportunity to take a group of people on a fun ride and act as their leader, but he gently refuses. John recognizes that he is not the Messiah, and he doesn't overstep his position. In fact, he notes to those around him that he is not even worthy to untie the sandals of Christ.
Are we willing to recognize our place in relation to God? Or are we trying to be God for other people? Many of us seem to believe that we can judge others and dish out penance as we see fit through our eyes, but we are not better than John. In fact, we might not even be worthy of John because we have forgotten our place in the world.
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