Herod Antipas decapitated John the Baptist. In short, Herod married his brother’s wife, Herodias. This was contrary to biblical law. John the Baptist criticized him for it and was thrown in jail. During his birthday party, Herod made a lavish promise to his stepdaughter: “Whatever you ask I will give you, up to half my … Continue reading Whose kingdom?
John the Baptist
The recipe for greatness
John the Baptist tells (and shows) us what humility is like. Speaking about Jesus, he said: “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:30). A lot of people think about what it means to be “great.” Is it fame or fortune? Is it awards or achievement? Is it a great social media profile … Continue reading The recipe for greatness
More him, less me
Speaking about Jesus, John the Baptist said: “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:30). This is a succinct statement of what it means to be more like Christ and to grow in holiness. The voice, influence, and power of Jesus must become greater and greater in our lives. This is helped as … Continue reading More him, less me
What’s the point?
John the Baptist was asked to describe himself. He responded by quoting the prophet Isaiah: “I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord’” (John 1:23). The point of John’s life was to direct people’s attention elsewhere. That is so refreshing in a world of me, myself … Continue reading What’s the point?
If there was an x-ray of your soul
Repentance. It’s an unpopular topic. But it’s biblical. And therefore, it matters. When John the Baptist bursts onto the scene in Matthew 3:2 (ESV) he says, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2 ESV). Jesus says the EXACT same thing in Matthew 4:17. Repentance is making a U-Turn. It’s being honest … Continue reading If there was an x-ray of your soul
