It might be difficult to understand John the Baptist when he arrives in Luke chapter 3. He is a prophet similar to those in the Old Testament (like Isaiah, Jeremiah, Jonah, etc.). Prophets were used by God to proclaim judgement upon people living in sin, and hope to people living faithfully under opression.
John says, ""You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Produce fruit in keeping with repentance."
This is obviously a call to turn from the peoples sinful ways or else face God's judgement. What is really interesting to me is the emotion of the message. Would John the Baptist be allowed to speak at Elmbrook? at Godsquad? Or would he be seen as too negative... too condemning. We will never really know because he is dead, but this we do know. His message was true and was from God.
Our sins are very serious to God. We need to turn from them (that is what repentance means) and turn to a new life of following Jesus. Jesus has promised to help us overcome our sins, if we bring them to him.
What areas of sin are the hardest for you to turn away from?
Have you asked anyone else for help in facing them?
1 comment:
My fear is that it wouldn't just be his "judging", condemning message that would make him unwelcome at a place like Elmbrook...but the way that he most likely appeared as well. What a great challenge for your ministry Brandon...3 5s...very cool.
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