I ‘ve listened to my fair share of sermons in my lifetime. It was definitely worth getting out in 6 degree weather to hear it!
We are in Matthew 3:1-3 as we’re introduced to a new character in the Bible. John the Baptist was spoken of in the book of Isaiah.
In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the Desert of Judea and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah:
”A voice of one calling in the desert, ‘prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’”
Matt: 3: 1-4
John was actually a second cousin to Jesus. His job was to prepare the way for Jesus. Essentially, it was to make them aware of their sin. Probably not easy when they were used to doing what they wanted.
If you put a frog in a hot pot of water he’ll jump right out. But put him in a pot of water and slowly warm it to cooking temperature, by the time he realizes what’s happened, it’s too late. This is what has happened to us!
If you sit long enough in sin, it doesn’t look so bad after awhile. The first time we heard foul language on prime time, we were appalled. But after we’ve gotten used to it, we are desensitized to it.
John the Baptist had to clear the way for the Messiah and we need to do the same thing for young Christians and non-believers today. Give them grace. It’s not our job to judge, we just pave the way. There will be roadblocks that they may not be able to get over by themselves.
Don’t let people think they have to be perfect to repent and receive salvation. But, they can’t repeat the same sins over and over. There must be a change once the Holy Spirit is with you. As children of God, we have to remove the roadblocks
Most people only feel shame about sin when they’re caught. When a person repents there has to be intention to not repeat that same sin again. This is not just an emotion, it’s a change in heart. Sorrow leads to action that leads to change in behavior.
Is repentance something we must do before we come to God and repent? No, but something must change as you learn God’s character and begin a relationship with him as you grow in your faith.
We can’t go to heaven unless we leave our sin. To get to LA from NY, you’ve got to leave New York, right?
The world is a dumpster fire and it’s been that way since Adam and Eve were expelled from the garden.
John was urgent in getting the message to the people. The King is coming soon! He’s closer than you think!
They may be stuck. They know they’re not walking with God, but they need a push get them going in the right direction. Be the voice to help!
Revival starts in our hearts.
You have searched me, Lord, and you know me.
Psalm 139:1
Live lives that are clearing the road!
We forget how important it is preparing our hearts for the Kingdom. It’s so we’re prepared to help others get there.
Revival starts in the hearts of God’s children!
This sermon helped me realize I don’t have to sit back and wait around for someone to start the movement. It’s on me to start revival in my own family, church and community. There are people out there who have walked away from the church because they’ve been heart by the people in the church. But, that’s not God. God’s not the one who hurt them, imperfect people did that.
If this seems like it’s pricked something in me, you’re right. God’s whispering your name, are you listening?
In Faith,
Pam
Where God Leads 