‘What should we do then?’ the crowd asked.” Luke 3:10
John the Baptist has just been preaching about the baptism of repentance, and challenging those who go through the motions but whose lives do not reflect their repentance. What should we do? We should be sincere. If we claim to follow Christ then let us follow the example and teachings he gives us on how to live. Let us pray at the beginning of this week that we would be the best we can be each and every day.
The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John might possibly be the Messiah.” Luke 3:15
When John spoke the people listened, there was power in what he said. Little wonder then that some wondered if he might be the Messiah. Sometimes we encounter charismatic leaders who seem to have such authority that we want to follow them. But we must beware, some like the religious leaders of John’s day are about exulting themselves but good leaders, like John, point the way to Christ and give glory to God. Let us pray for those who lead, that they would seek God’s wisdom and point the way to Christ.
“John answered them all, ‘I baptise you with water. But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” Luke 3:16
Our verse today is an example of what we were considering yesterday. John tells that Jesus is so great that even the most menial of tasks would be too great for John to do for him. Here John points to Jesus telling of his greatness and the gift of the Holy Spirit who shows us who Christ is and empowers us to live in accordance with his teachings. Let us pray that we would recognise Jesus for who he is and give him reverence and praise
“His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing-floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.’ Luke 3:17
We like to emphasise the love and compassion of Jesus, and it is right to do so, but it is important that we do not forget that the time will come when we will all have to give an account of ourselves. And those who have not given themselves into the love and care of Christ and following his ways will be like the chaff. Let us pray that we would have the wisdom to believe in him and follow his ways.
“And with many other words John exhorted the people and proclaimed the good news to them.” Luke 3:18
We all need hope and encouragement, the good news of Christ crucified and the salvation it brings to those that accept it, is the greatest hope we can have. Whatever we are facing today as followers of Jesus we have the hope of a better tomorrow. But even as we face the struggles of today we have the promise that he is always with us. Let us pray that just as we have heard the good news so too we will tell others.
“When all the people were being baptised, Jesus was baptised too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened.” Luke 3:21
Being without sin Jesus had no need of the baptism of repentance, but he comes to John and is baptised by him in order that he might identify himself with humankind, with each of us. In the same way when we are baptised we identify ourselves with him. Let us praise God that he would go to such lengths to reconcile us to himself.
And with many other words John exhorted the people and proclaimed the good news to them. Luke 3:18
As we come to worship let us bring honour and glory to God in the attitudes of our hearts. Let us use this special time of year to encourage those around us to peer into the stable and encounter the Saviour of the world. Let us again pray for a Christmas miracle in the hearts who are yet to know who Jesus really is, the Saviour of the world.