Sunday: John’s Ministry Launched — Mark 1:1; Luke 3:1-2
The word “gospel” means “good news.” The arrival of Jesus in the scene is the good news everyone had been waiting for; it was the good news of the Christ (the Messiah). The promised, anointed Savior of men had finally come. God gave the calling of preparing the people for this great news to John. John had lived in the desert since his youth (Luke 1:80). He likely was already aware of his calling because his father had been aware of it from before John’s birth. But now, being prompted by the Spirit of God, he began his ministry to the Jews, preaching a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.
Monday: The Voice of One — Matthew 3:1-6; Mark 1:2-6; Luke 3:3-6
John the Baptist’s ministry was foretold in the Old Testament. Malachi 3:1 and Isaiah 40:3 are passages that predict that there would be a forerunner to “prepare the way of the Lord.” As the messenger, John’s ministry was important because it was an authentic voice of prophecy and is one of the first times the connection is made that the One who was to come, Jesus, was the true Lord. In his dress, manner of life, and message of repentance, he identified with Elijah. This chosen man was careful to magnify Jesus and not himself. Everything he did pointed to Christ.
Tuesday: Pharisees & Sadducees — Matthew 3:7-10; Luke 3:7-9
The heritage of the Jews was extremely important to them. John cautioned the religious leaders against relying on their Godly heritage to save them. He warns them that they aren’t going to get into the Kingdom of God on Abraham’s shirttails. He points out that true repentance is what’s necessary, for it brings with it fruit that bears the characteristics of a Godly person: basic fruit, like love, joy, and peace (Galatians 5:22; 1 Corinthians 13:1-3). Neither can we rely on church-going traditions and attendance, or upon our giving or works of charity. We must be converted!
Wednesday: Multitudes, Tax Collectors, Soldiers — Luke 2:10-14
Through John’s ministry many were convicted of their sins. In their repentance, they asked John what they should do to correct their ungodly lives. He instructed them to help one another. He taught that they were to be fair in their business dealings and interpersonal ones, as well. Whether working with a neighbor, a business associate, a criminal or an employer, John told the people that they needed to use integrity, show justice and mercy and be content. The way we treat others shows much about our hearts.
Thursday: The Winnowing Fan — Matthew 3:11-12
The phrase “fan is in His hand” refers to the process of winnowing the chaff from the grain. Winnowing was a simple method of tossing the grain into the air so that the wind would blow away the lighter chaff, reserving the heavier grain. The fan was a shaped basket that was used as a tool to speed the process. It involved either sifting or fanning the grain so that the chaff would separate. John is warning the people to prepare for the Messiah’s coming because He is coming with judgment.
Friday: Baptizing with the Spirit — Mark 1:7-8
Along with preparing their hearts toward holiness, John instructs that Jesus will also bring the Holy Spirit. This is the promised outpouring prophesied in Ezekiel 37:14, and Joel 2:28-29. It was part of the New Covenant promise God gave to His people. Paul wrote to the Ephesians, “be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18).