Bible Study Lesson — Luke 1: 16-25
Moving on in the progression of the coming of the Christ child, John the Baptist was to be the one who announced Jesus as the Messiah.
This earns him a place of great importance in the Christmas story and the Bible.
Take a look and watch as the rest of the story of Christ unfolds.
John the Baptist – His Mission in the Christmas Story
“And he will turn many of the sons of Israel back to the Lord their God.
It is he who will go as a forerunner before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers back to the children, and the disobedient to the attitude of the righteous, so as to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” – Luke 1: 16-17 NASB
Why was John the Baptist Sent?
According to this passage, John the Baptist was to be similar to an Old Testament prophet. His mission was to help lead the people back toward God and away from their sinful behavior.
Elijah & John
Elijah’s name was brought up in verse 17 because Elijah, like John the Baptist, stood up against rulers as shown in Malachi 4:5; Matthew 11:14; 17:10-13.
Preparation for the Coming of Christ
John was best at preparing people for Christ’s arrival and was sent to soften the hearts of those who would listen to make them more trusting and ready for a change.
Importance of John’s Role
There are not enough words to express the importance of what John the Baptist did in foretelling the coming of the Messiah and getting people ready to accept the truth.
Because of John’s commitment, many people had the “right heart” when Jesus began teaching and healing. They were now open to what God could accomplish.
Are you as open to God as you should be? Am I?
Love in Christ
– Bob
More From the Christmas Story >>
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Read Today’s Verses Here:
New American Standard Bible
New King James Version