Most Christians are indistinguishable from unbelievers. Their compromising lifestyles conform to the world. Instead of being on fire for God, they are lukewarm. Passiveness instead of passion becomes their calling card. They refuse to believe if it’s risky. Therefore, they adopt the path of least resistance. They coexist with sin instead of confessing it. They depend upon themselves instead of the Holy Spirit. They practice mediocrity and not excellence; fear and not faith; and avoidance, not activism. John the Baptist was the opposite of the modern-day Christian.
John preached a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sin in the 15th year of Tiberius Caesar when Pontius Pilate was governor. From Isaiah, he quoted, “. . . Make ready the way of the Lord, make His paths straight. . . . And all flesh shall see the salvation of God” (Lk. 3:1-6). People realize they are sinners requiring a Savior prior to experiencing salvation through Christ.
John told the multitudes to “bring forth fruits in keeping with repentance” and not rely on their physical heritage in Abraham. True spiritual children would be born when bad fruit was cut down and burned. In response to the multitudes asking what they should do, he told them to share basic necessities like food and clothing with others. In response to a tax-gatherer’s question, John told him to collect the right amount and to a soldier, not to take money by force or accuse anyone falsely, but be content with his wages (Lk. 3:7-14). Once people acknowledge their sin and trust in Christ completely for the forgiveness of sin, they become spiritually reborn with the potential to live a life worthy of God.
People wondered whether John was Christ. John said he baptized with water, but a mightier One was coming who baptized with the Holy Spirit and fire and would burn the chaff with unquenchable fire (Lk. 3:15-17). Relying on the Holy Spirit provides power to live a pure and holy life.
Because John confronted Herod for marrying his brother’s wife, Herodias, he was imprisoned (Lk. 3:18-20). Those who obey Christ without compromise will be persecuted by the world.
Heaven opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon John like a dove after Jesus was baptized and prayed. A voice from heaven said, “Thou art My beloved Son, in Thee I am well-pleased” (Lk. 3:21-22). A child of God who prays feels His love and care profoundly.
Jesus began his ministry at the age of 30 as the supposedly son of Joseph and descendant of David, Jacob, Isaac, Abraham, Adam and the son of God (Lk. 3:23-38). Because Jesus as the God-man goes through life like any other human being, He will come to your aid.
The following are values to distinguish you from the world: Ask the Holy Spirit to give you a fire for God. Pray for the filling of the Holy Spirit in your life. Confess all known sin. Refuse any compromise!
