The Message is Different

 N.T.#489 "The Message Is Different"

Feb. 18, 2025 

Luke 3-Part 1

LET IT GLOW 

Can you picture John the Baptist as he goes about preaching repentance. I see him shaggy, unshaven, wearing camel's hair clothes. His diet, looks, and clothing was different, yet simple. His was the voice that resonated in the wilderness for Israel to return back to God through admitting their sins. Israel had broken their covenant with God, so they needed to admit it.  Like many of the prophets, John would be put to death because of his message. John went into the region of the Jordan River to preach repentance and baptism as a sign of their turning from sin and to God.

John's ministry is summed up in Isaiah 40:3-5, which Luke quotes here. What was John's purpose?

• Prepare the way of the Lord. Israel, get your hearts ready for the coming of your Messiah.
• Make His paths straight.. (verse 4) Monarchs traveling through the wilderness regions would have a crew of workmen go ahead to make sure the road was clear of debris, obstructions, potholes, and other hazards that mad the journey difficult. 
• Every valley shall be filled, (Humble ones will be enriched with grace.)
• every mountain and hill shall be brought low; (self-confidence will hit rock bottom.)
• every crooked shall be made straight, (Crooked ways of sin can be made straight by God.)
• and the rough ways shall be made smooth. (verse 5) (God's love and Word is easy to walk in.)
• And all flesh shall see the salvation of God. 

Jews and Gentiles are welcome at the foot of the cross for salvation is provided by Jesus Christ. As the heart is changed through faith in Jesus, so one finds the love of God and His grace, peace, mercy.

Have you found this newness of life? Is there peace with God in your heart? His love never fails, never gives up, never runs out.

LET IT GROW 

The Jewish religious leaders had poisoned the Jews, resulting in hatred toward God and each other. John called those Sadducees and Pharisees vipers, having poisoned their relationship with God and each other. God's wrath is coming.  (verse 7)  Are you ready?

Our fruit of repentance results in a changed heart, mind, and way of life. Love dwells in our heart and is shown forth. (verse 8) An unfruitful tree is cut down and cast into the fire as firewood. 

What shall we do? John explained:

• Share food and clothing. Give to those in need. (verse 11)
• Be just and honest in business, including taxes charged. (verses 12-13)
• Show kindness instead of violence. (verse 14)
• Don't accuse people falsely.
• Be content with your wages. (verse 14) (Matthew Henry's Commentary)

Are we living in peace with God and others? Are we filled with God's love and give as He gives? Do others see Jesus in us?

LET IT GO

Lighten the load of sin, my friend.

Let Jesus carry your burdens.

Be filled with His love, joy, peace, patience, faith, goodness-fruit of the Spirit.