JANUARY 15, Luke 3: 1-18 

During the time of the rule of the Roman emperor Tiberius Caesar, in the year AD 26, John the forerunner or heralder of the Messiah began to preach the baptism of repentance in order for sins to be forgiven. This was exactly what was promised in Isaiah 40:3-4 that the Lord’s first coming would be preceded by His forerunner, “the voice of one crying in the wilderness.”

The people went out to him from “Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the region round about.” He did not have to go to the people; the people went to him. Even the Pharisees and Sadducees went to see and hear John. His strong message about those who were not bringing “forth good fruit” and God’s judgment upon them did not stop them from coming to hear God’s Word.

Do you try to talk to people about God? Do you dare to share the gospel with friends? At your age, you may not know a lot about doctrines or profound teachings of the bible, but that’s fine! Just share with friends, or family members, why you believe in God, and what changes He has made in your life. And if you are truly saved and changed, they would be able to see that you have turned a new leaf and that is the power of Christ seen in your personal example. That would be one of the most powerful testimonies for God!

The message of John the Baptist was a strong one. What was it?

He courageously condemned the people of their __________. He asked them to __________ for God is angry with them.

They must __________ by their life that they have truly repented. If not, they will be like the __________ that does not have __________ fruit and will be __________ down.

(Helping words: good, chopped, show, tree, repent, sins, bad, axe, wrath)

Thought: The truth will set the people free.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, teach me to understand that the love of God deals strongly and boldly against sin in our lives. Help to know that having sin in my life makes You displeased, and so Father, help me to examine my life and purify myself. And if I change, others can see these changes in me too!
This I ask in the name of the Redeemer, amen.