30 He must increase, but I must decrease.
Other Translations of John 3:30
New International Version
30 He must become greater; I must become less."Some interpreters end the quotation with verse 36.
English Standard Version
30 He must increase, but I must decrease."Some interpreters hold that the quotation continues through verse 36
The Message
30 This is the assigned moment for him to move into the center, while I slip off to the sidelines.
New King James Version
30 He must increase, but I must decrease.
New Living Translation
30 He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.
The King James Version is in the public domain.
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Matthew Henry's Commentary on John 3:30
Commentary on John 3:22-36
(Read John 3:22-36)
John was fully satisfied with the place and work assigned him; but Jesus came on a more important work. He also knew that Jesus would increase in honour and influence, for of his government and peace there would be no end, while he himself would be less followed. John knew that Jesus came from heaven as the Son of God, while he was a sinful, mortal man, who could only speak about the more plain subjects of religion. The words of Jesus were the words of God; he had the Spirit, not by measure, as the prophets, but in all fulness. Everlasting life could only be had by faith in Him, and might be thus obtained; whereas all those, who believe not in the Son of God, cannot partake of salvation, but the wrath of God for ever rests upon them.