Luke: Part 11 – John Prepares the Way of the Lord
Isaiah and Malachi both prophesied about the coming of one who will prepare the way of the Lord. We have learned that it is John the Baptist, son of Zechariah and Elizabeth who will do this great work. Zechariah understood this when John was just born, for he declares that John will indeed prepare the way for the Most High God. When he began his ministry, some thought that he was the Messiah, but he makes it clear that he is not! So, how does He prepare the way of the Lord? By preaching a simple message of repentance. To repent is to turn away from our own selfish ways and it means to live as God has called us to live, unselfishly! John says, “I baptize with water; but someone is coming soon who is greater than I am—so much greater that I am not even worthy to be his slave. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.” Luke tells us that John was a preacher of the Gospel, with many warnings of judgment, John announced the Good News about Jesus Christ. John confronts everyone, even Herod Antipas ruler of Galilee. Eventually, John is put in prison for his blunt preaching. This is what good preachers do.