It's Okay to be Different

N. T. #12 "It's Okay to be Different"

Feb. 22, 2023

Matthew 3

In those days came John the Baptist preaching in the wilderness of Judaea. (verse 1)

LET IT GLOW

I am sure some would describe me as different. I wear dresses to worship service and Bible study. I do not do it for show or to stand out, but God set me apart years ago to be different. I come into the presence of God in our church building as a woman, so I want to look like one. (This is not to criticize you if you do not dress the same as I do, but to share what I am to do. I follow my convictions.)

We read about the genealogy of Jesus, His divine birth, and the wise men's unexpected worship, then the danger He faced in early childhood. In this chapter, we will change to John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ, and his ministry.

Who was John the Baptist?

• His parents were Elisabeth and Zacharias, a priest. (Luke 1:5-80)
• John's birth had been announced by the angel Gabriel to his father. 
• This child of promise was great in the sight of the Lord and would be filled with the Holy Spirit. (Luke 1:15)
• None was greater than this John. (Matt. 11:11)
• John's ministry was in the wilderness (the mountains west of the Dead Sea.) It was desert area, a beautiful orange.
• His appearance was rough, wearing a coat of camel's hair and a leather belt.
• He was presented as a prophet sent in the spirit of Elijah. 

Dare I say that John was a special preacher/evangelist? From his birth to his death, John was important in the kingdom work, preparing the way for Jesus.

Each of us has a special purpose for our life. Are we furthering the kingdom of God in our work and in our life?

LET IT GROW

 What can we learn from John the Baptist's life?

• God uses the wilderness (Quiet places) to prepare us for ministry. Quietness and meditation is essential. 
• Believers are never alone, no matter how secluded we are. God is there. He can manifest Himself wherever believers are. 
• The Gospel began in the wilderness, not in a synagogue or temple or church. 
• God has a special place of service for every believer. John's place was in the wilderness. Jesus' place was in the cities, synagogues, as will as the countryside. Wherever we are, believers should witness. (The Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible)

We may not be called to be preachers (men), but we can teach children and share the Good News of Jesus Christ is Savior and Messiah wherever.

LET IT GO

How good it is to be different, set apart, from the wolrd for kingdom work.

Is there something we need to let go of so we can be a faithful servant?