John the Baptist (Luke 3:1-20) - 1/22/23

INTRO

• The ministry of John the Baptist

• Preparing the way for Christ

• The need to of the people… repentance

The Man- vv. 1-2

• God’s perfect timing (A.D. 28/29)

• 400 years since the last prophetic voice

• Rulers/Leaders listed, but notice that a faithful servant was given the Word.

The Message – vv. 3-14

The Content – vv. 3-6

• At the Jordan

  • Earlier, Israel was baptized as the crossed over to take the physical kingdom.

  • Now, they are returning to be baptized for the spiritual kingdom.

• Baptism of repentance

  • From the OT purification (Cleansing/Renewal)

  • Pointing forward (IT IS COMING)

  • Today… points to a new life (NOW)

• Repentance

  • A sorrow that leads to change

  • From – To

• As it is written

  • Isaiah 40:1-5

  • Make straight.

  • Mountains/Valleys

  • Doing all that is necessary for the coming KING.

The audience – vv. 7-9

• Brood of Vipers

  • Snakes coming out of a burning field.

• Bear fruit worthy of repentance

  • Called to be the people of God, but you are living differently.

  • Ax – judgement is coming.

The response – 10-14

• What shall we do?

  • LIVE DIFFERENTLY

  • LIVE RIGHT

The Mission – vv. 15-20

• Pointing the way

• A mightier one is coming.

• Unworthy to tie sandals

  • Sovereign King

• Baptize with Fire

  • Judge. Purify

• Winnowing fork

  • Gather & scatter

• Good news

  • More than just judgment

  • Savior that brings Good News

  • Seek and to Save

  • Give life and life more abundantly.