Does it Matter How We Live?

N. T. #13 "Does it Matter How We Live?"

Feb. 23, 2023

Matthew 3-Part 2

The prophet Isaiah was speaking about John when he said, "He is a voice shouting in the wilderness, Prepare the way for the LORD's coming! Clear the road for Him!" (verse 3)

LET IT GLOW

So picture this: a man dressed in a coat of camel's hair and a leather belt comes preaching repentance in your area, the wilderness. What would one think? Is he a crazy man? Is he a prophet sent by God? It would definitely cause me to take notice. Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. What a message!

John the Baptists had a special calling of God on his life. After all, he was the son of older parents and his father was a priest. He was raised up to prepare the way for the Lord Jesus, his cousin.. This was a different message than the priests gave-bring your offerings for sin into the Temple. What is different about this repentance message of John? 

In the Greek language, and as it is used in verse 2, repent means to think differently or afterwards; reconsider. 

What were the people to think differently about? They needed a change of mind and change of heart. We are all sinners in need of a Savior, Jews and Gentiles alike. Have you come to Jesus? Have you asked Him to forgive your sins and be your Savior?

LET IT GROW

Time passed and Jesus and John grew up. John the Baptist was fulfilling his purpose as he preached repentance. See Isaiah 40:3; Amos 4:12; Hosea 10:12; Joel 2:12-13; 2 Timothy 2:20-21.

We are inadequate in righteousness, so we need to repent of our sins. The present world is inadequate, so the Kingdom of Heaven is needed. Our way of life is inadequate, so we are to follow the way Jesus lived. All 4 Gospels relate this prophecy to the fulfillment in the life and ministry of John the Baptist. 

What are we to do?

• Be a voice telling others to repent of their sins, believe in Jesus Christ as Savior, and live for Him.
• Prepare the way of the Lord-get ready to face our God, and the coming of Holy Jesus.
• Make our paths straight, having a right relationship with God, for our King is coming.
• Isaiah 40:3 is the reference here. 
• Jesus will rule over the earth for a thousand years.
• His kingdom was at hand when Jesus reigns as King in our heart and life.

Confess sins; live for God. What a simple message. Are we practicing what we preach, declare, say? Is our walk the same as our talk, believer?

John's unusual lifestyle, odd wardrobe, and confrontational preaching was different for a believer. Could people discover what we believe by observing the way we live?

LET IT GO

Jesus, give us strength to stand for You and Your ways.

Thank You for salvation through faith in You.

Use us to share Your love, peace, and joy in this world.