Matthew 3:1-12
Q.1. When did John the Baptizer start his ministry? What was his message? Was it new? What kind of man was John? How did people declare their resolve to change? – (Mt.3:1-7)
John the Baptizer started his ministry some time before he baptized Jesus. (Mt.3:13). His ministry was profound and powerful, because he called for repentance and transformation, in a day where insincere religion was the norm. He proclaimed – Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand (Mt.3:2). However, John’s message was not new but was based upon the Old Testament prophets. For example, he quoted from Isaiah 40:3. John was spirit-filled from birth. He lived in the wilderness of Judea as an unsophisticated holy man. He probably never preached in the cities, as Jesus did (Mt.3:1 & 4 c.f. Lk.1:15). His ministry created an enormous stir, as Jewish people streamed to hear him (Mt.3:5 c.f. Mk.1:5). They submitted to his demanding message – and they were being baptized by him in the Jordan River, as they confessed their sins (Mt.3:6).
Q.2. What attitudes among the Jews did John address? How did he expect people to change? What was the real focus of his message? Was John’s view of God accurate? – (Mt.3:7-12 c.f. Mt.13:40-43; 25:41-46)
John fearlessly exposed the religious hypocrisy of the Pharisees and Sadducees, and the complacent dependence on their Jewish heritage, that most Jews had (Mt.3:7 & 9). He didn’t mince words, as he demanded that they – bear fruit in keeping with repentance (Mt.3:8). John deflected the attention away from himself, and clearly pointed to the coming Messiah – As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not fit to remove His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire (Mt.3:11 c.f. Jn.3:25-31). John was preparing the people to meet Jesus, Who came at first to be the Saviour of the world (c.f. Jn.3:17). However, when He comes again it will be as Judge and King of all kings. The response to John’s ministry, and the commendation by Jesus, speak highly of his faithfulness as a prophet (Mt.3:7,10 ,12 c.f. Mt.11:7-14; 13:40-43; 25:41-46; Rev.20:11-15). Our calling also, is to promote our Saviour, God’s only Son, Jesus Christ. There is salvation in no one else.