The Arkansas Traveler

JOHN THE BAPTIST

Faithful Forerunner

Luke 1:5-20

INTRO: We can hardly talk about Jesus without talking about John the Baptist. Their lives are intertwined from birth. Today we consider John's life and lessons we learn from him.

PROPHECY

   Isaiah 40:3 talks about a voice calling in the wilderness:

                        "Prepare the way of the Lord."

            John quotes that in John 1:23 when asked who he is.

   Luke 1:16, the angel tells that the people of Israel will turn      back to the Lord because of his ministry.

MIRACULOUS BIRTH

   Angelic announcement

   Hard to believe. Parents were elderly!

      His father was deaf till he was born because he doubted.

   His birth was a blessing for his aged parents.

OBEDIENT MINISTRY

   Lifestyle sounds strange. His clothing and food?

   He understood his mission: Prepare for the Lord.

                        Bear witness to Jesus (John 1:6)

   He pointed people to Jesus, and then withdrew. John 3:30.

   He was faithful to the end. – An unexpected end!

LESSONS: God still breaks into history.

                    He is carrying out His plan. He chooses to use people.

                    We have John as an example of faithfulness.

                    Our task is the same: Point to the Savior!

   Have you met John's Jesus? Are you following Him?

May God bless as you celebrate the birth of our Savior!