The Life of Christ Lesson 3 The Ministry of John the Baptist The baptism of Jesus by john Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness John the Baptist’S Testimony of Jesus

John the Baptist Testifies of Jesus – John 1:19-34 In an official visit (1:22) by the religious leaders, they asked of John: “Who are you?” “I am not the Christ!” “I am not” Elijah. Malachi 4:5f. But John “himself is Elijah” according to Matthew 11:11-14; 17:10-13; Luke 1:17 Widespread belief that Elijah would literally be revived and return. I am not “the Prophet” (Deuteronomy 18:15)

John the Baptist Testifies of Jesus – John 1:19-34 “Who are you?” “What do you say about yourself?” Interesting question for us to consider … who are you? How would Paul have answered? 1 Corinthians 4:1; 1 Timothy 1:15; 1 Corinthians 15:9, etc. What would your answer be? John’s answer: He was the “Voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘make straight the way of the Lord.’” Quote from Isaiah 40:3. compare with Matthew 3:3; Mark 1:3 and Luke 3:4-6. What’s different?

John the Baptist Testifies of Jesus – John 1:19-34 If you’re not Elijah, “the Prophet” or the Christ, then why are you doing what you’re doing? (i.e., baptizing and creating “disciples” or followers (John 1:35; Luke 3:7)) John’s answer was one of humble deference to Jesus the Christ stating he was unworthy to untie the thong of His sandal. A task performed by the lowliest of servants.

John the Baptist Testifies of Jesus – John 1:19-34 John’s meeting with Jesus Christ. Identifies Jesus as the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world”. (1:29) “This is He …” Higher rank Existed before me How sure was John? Saw the Spirit descending out of heaven on Him. “I myself have seen, and have testified that this is the Son of God”.

John the Baptist Testifies of Jesus – John 1:19-34 John’s meeting with Jesus Christ. “Behold the Lamb of God …”(1 Peter 1:19; Revelation 7:14; 1 Corinthians 5:7) “… who takes away the sin of the world.” “… a memorable expression of both his faith in God’s promises and his recognition of the place of Jesus in the divine plan.” (King) Does John yet understand the full breadth of God’s plan to redeem man from his sins and what man must do to access God’s grace? He now knows who that forgiveness will come through!

John the Baptist Testifies of Jesus – John 1:19-34 John’s meeting with Jesus Christ. Does John yet understand the full breadth of God’s plan to redeem man from his sins and what man must do to access God’s grace? He now knows who that forgiveness will come through! “This is He …” (verse 30) “I did not recognize Him …” as the Messiah. His testimony wasn’t based on fleshly identification. His testimony based on the Father’s and Holy Spirit’s testimony (verses 32-33). Powerful testimony: “I myself have seen, and have testified that this is the Son of God.” (verse 34)

Questions each of us must answer … Is Jesus the Christ, the Son of God? Is Jesus the one? Based on the temptations that He faced, can I follow Him? Can I draw near to Him?