John The Baptist Mark 1:1-15

Introduction Interesting Bible character Why look at John? Job was to announce one greater Some couldn’t handle that task Why look at John? Some of Jesus’ disciples were John’s Jesus said he was a great man (Matthew 11:11)

John Loved Righteousness Not content with status quo Discontent over the sins of Israel Bothered by hypocrisy Lived apart from the elite (Luke 1:80)

John Loved Righteousness Turned away from the priestly office Turned people away from formalism Too many trusted in the flesh (Matthew 3:7-9) Preached repentance (Luke 3:2-17) Told them to “practice what they preached” (Matthew 3:6)

John Loved Righteousness Some like religion to be easy Seemed easy for Mom and Dad Hard to be faithful (Matthew 7:13, 14) Hard things to do (John 2:13-17)

Humbly Fulfilled His Purpose Popular among the common people Went out to hear him and be baptized (Matthew 3:5) Didn’t feel worthy to baptize Jesus (Matthew 3:13-15) Compare with the televangelists today

Humbly Fulfilled His Purpose Soon attracted attention Sent messengers (John 1:19-21) Asked if he was “the prophet” (John 1:25-27) Pointed them to Jesus (John 1:29-36) Lost two disciples to Jesus (John 1:37) He would decrease (John 3:26-30)

Humbly Fulfilled His Purpose Full of courage and dedication The test is how one lives Dedication is often not appreciated Showed sincerity, courage, and resolve He told Herod, “It is not lawful…” (Mark 6:18-28) Great personal cost (Mark 6:19-28)

Conclusion Do we have John’s courage? His works testified of his greatness