There is a stark contrast between John's joy and his disciples' jealousy. John's joy comes from knowing Jesus Christ - and from his relationship with Him. John understood that his ministry, his moment in the spotlight, and his declining popularity, were all a part of God's sovereign plan and purpose. In this, John found great joy.
The Parable of the Sower Explained
Matthew 13:18-23
Key Verse: 13:23
As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.”
