Great in Heaven

N.T.#122 "Great in Heaven"

August 3, 2023

Matthew 11-Part 6

LET IT GLOW

John the Baptist had a purpose. It was revealed as Malachi wrote his book: 

Behold, I will send My messenger, and he shall prepare the way before Me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to His temple, even the messenger of the covenant, who ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts. (Malachi 3:1)

John was not the Messiah, but pointed the way to Jesus, the Messiah. That verse corresponds with verse 10. He role was to decrease in prominence while Jesus' ministry increased. (John 3:30) John allowed his disciples to leave him in order to follow Jesus. His ministry only lasted about 6 months. Jesus said of John that no one was greater in the kingdom of heaven. That included Moses, Elijah, and Isaiah. John matched their greatness. (verse 11a)

Yet, this preacher needed reassurance as he faced death. We know they cut off John's head. It was due to his telling the truth. We read the details in chapter 14.

Are we prepared for anything as a result in our serving Jesus faithfully?

LET IT GROW

Yet, Jesus said that John the Baptist was the least in the kingdom of heaven. Will we allow Jesus to carry out His work through our lives? Then greater things will be done through us than were ever accomplished through John the Baptist.

[Reference: Experiencing God Day-By-Day, by Henry and Richard Blackaby]

Our kingdom work is just as important as that of John's. It all works together to accomplish God's purpose. so let's continue with courage, unwavering faith, determination, and endurance as we point others to Jesus, the Savior and Messiah.

LET IT GO 

Help us continue with self-denial and love.

Bless Your children throughout the world.

Protect us from evil.