Luke 3:1-20: Public Preparation
SEVERAL YEARS AGO, before Queen Elizabeth arrived in a British Commonwealth country, its people feverishly prepared a royal welcome. They gave special attention to the highway running from the airport to the capital. Each house along the way received from the government a fresh coat of paint—but only on the front of the house!
Superficial changes that people can notice—that's all some Christian leaders seem to ask for. Not so the preaching of John the Baptizer. He asked for radical moral changes, reversals of lifestyle.
Warming Up to God
In what way are you likely to be satisfied with superficial changes in your own life?
Read Luke 3:1-20. »
Discovering the Word
- Reflect on John's dominant preaching theme in verses 3-9. How would you paraphrase this theme with contemporary relevance?
- John gladly answers three distinct groups asking about the practical fruits of repentance. What basic sin does John attack in each case (vv. 8-14)?
- In verses 15-20 John introduces Jesus the Christ. He has been uncompromising about the need for repentance. Now he also refuses to let the crowds think he is the expected Christ. In warning them, what picture of the Christ does he paint?
- Like repentance, judgment is not a popular topic today among many Christians. Yet how is this also part of "the good news" (v. 18)?
Applying the Word
- What injustices in your society would John attack?
- John's message and ministry show what repentance should be. How would you explain repentance to inquirers in terms that make sense to them?
Responding in Prayer
Pray for a friend who needs this explanation.
For Further Study
The Hope of Easter by Bill Donahue