King James Bible
"John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven."
John the Baptist responds to his disciples' concern about Jesus' growing popularity. This introduction frames his reply as a deliberate teaching moment about divine sovereignty rather than a defensive reaction. John establishes a fundamental principle of human limitation—no one possesses authority, calling, or spiritual gifts by their own power. This directly addresses any jealousy over Jesus' ministry by acknowledging all roles come from outside ourselves. Heaven serves as the sole source of legitimate ministry and blessing, emphasizing God's sovereign distribution of roles. John accepts his diminishing role because both his and Jesus' ministries originate from divine appointment, not human ambition.