The Pioneers of Our Faith - Feb. 18th, 2024

Sermon Title: The Pioneers of Our Faith

Occasion: 75th Anniversary Service of First Baptist Church of Westminster

Service Theme: Honoring those who paved the way before us

Sermon Theme and Scripture Text: A Message Based on the Preparation for Jesus by John the Baptist as Recorded in Luke 3:1-6

Exegetical outline for Luke 3:1-14

I. Introduction of John's Ministry (Luke 3:1-2)

A. The historical and political context is established, marking the beginning of John's ministry under the reign of Tiberius Caesar, with specific regional rulers noted.

B. Divine calling of John in the wilderness, fulfilling the word of God.

II. John's Preaching and Baptism (Luke 3:3-6)

A. John preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins across the Jordan region.

B. His message fulfills Isaiah's prophecy about preparing the way for the Lord, emphasizing universal salvation.

III. John's Exhortation to the Crowds (Luke 3:7-9)

A. John confronts the crowds, calling them to produce fruits in keeping with repentance and not to rely on Abraham's lineage for righteousness.

B. He warns of imminent judgment, symbolized by the axe at the root of the trees, indicating that unfruitful trees will be cut down and thrown into the fire.

IV. Specific Instructions to Various Groups (Luke 3:10-14)

A. The crowds inquire about what they should do. John advises acts of charity and sharing.

B. Tax collectors, upon asking the same, are told to collect no more than what is appointed.

C. Soldiers are instructed not to extort money, not to accuse people falsely, and to be content with their wages.

John the Baptist's role in preparing for Jesus' ministry called for moral/ethical conduct transformation and spiritual readiness among all societal groups. His message centered around the themes of repentance, social justice, and the anticipation of the messianic age.

CIT:

The central idea of Luke 3:1-14 is that John the Baptist's ministry, marked by preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, serves as the divine preparation for the coming of the Lord. Through calls for ethical behavior, acts of charity, and a heart of repentance, John emphasizes the need for genuine transformation in anticipation of the Messiah's arrival. This passage underlines the universal scope of God's salvation and the urgent need for personal and communal readiness for God's redemptive work.

Proposition:

In the spirit of John the Baptist's pioneering ministry, we are called to pave the way for the Lord's coming by embodying a life of repentance, ethical living, and active participation in God's redemptive work, ensuring the legacy of faith continues to thrive across generations.

Statement of Purpose for the Sermon

Major Objective: To inspire the congregation towards a deepened commitment to living out their faith with intentionality and vigor, embodying the pioneering spirit of John the Baptist as they prepare the way for the Lord in their own lives and communities.

Specific Objective: To encourage the congregation to:

Embrace a life marked by repentance and transformation, akin to the call of John the Baptist.

Engage in acts of kindness, charity, and justice as tangible expressions of their faith.

Commit to the advancement of the Gospel through personal evangelism, discipleship, and support of missions.

Recognize and honor the legacy of those who have paved the way in faith before them, while also understanding their role as current pioneers tasked with passing on a vibrant faith to the next generation.

Introduction: Preparing the Way - A Call to Pioneering Faithfulness

Briefly recount the history and legacy of First Baptist Church of Westminster, highlighting its adherence to the Gospel message through various seasons and leadership transitions.

Introduce the concept of "We Stand on the Shoulders of Giants," drawing parallels between the pioneering efforts of our church forebears and John the Baptist's preparatory work for the coming of Christ.

Reflect on the 75th Anniversary of First Baptist Church of Westminster, acknowledging the pioneering spirit of those who laid the foundations of faith and ministry.

I. Their Basis of Ministry: The Bible (Luke 3:1ff, referencing Isaiah & Malachi)

The Divine Call in the Wilderness (Luke 3:1-2)

Luke 3:1–2 KJV 1900

Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.

The last time that John the Baptist was mentioned in Luke's narrative was at his birth, when his father Zacharias praised God for His fulfillment of the promise. Now, after thirty years of silence concerning the life of John, Luke begins to tell of the ministry of this great prophet.

In order to set the stage for what he would write about John the Baptist's ministry and give a historical context, Luke mentions several state leaders:

Tiberius Caesar: He ruled from A.D. 14 to 37, and was the stepson of Caesar Augustus. Tiberius was a harsh leader and suspicious of all rivals, severely punishing offenders. Christ's public ministry, death, resurrection, John the Baptist's ministry, and Paul's conversion all took place during the reign of Tiberius Caesar.

Pontius Pilate: Pilate was the Roman governor of Judea, possessing full military and judicial authority in the region.

Herod, Tetrarch of Galilee: This was Herod Antipas, the son of Herod the Great. His father had left Galilee to him as part of the kingdom. It was Herod Antipas who imprisoned John the Baptist for his preaching.

Philip, Tetrarch of lturaea: The region of lturaea was situated on the east side of the Jordan, and was taken by the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh.

Lysanias, Tetrarch of Abilene: This region was so named for its chief city, Abila. It was located in Syria, northwest of Damascus and southeast of Mount Lebanon, next to Galilee.

After listing some of the political leaders of the time, Luke gives information about the religious leaders during John's ministry.

Annas: He was the leader of the Sanhedrin, the religious ruling body of the day.

Caiaphas: At this time, Caiaphas was the official high priest, a weak leader who was willing to compromise and cooperate with the Romans.

It is likely that Luke mentions these different state and religious leaders by name in order to provide historical references for his information, as well as a spiritual backdrop to explain the social and religious climate of the day. This was a backdrop of political leaders who opposed the one true God, and spiritual leaders who had become too steeped in their traditions. All of these leaders would have been influenced by the ministry of John the Baptist.

A. Historical Context and Prophetic Fulfillment

- Explain the significance of John the Baptist's ministry as rooted in Old Testament prophecies, emphasizing the continuity of God's redemptive plan.

Contextualize John the Baptist’s ministry initiation, emphasizing the fulfillment of God’s word in a time of political and religious complexity.

Verse 2 emphasizes that the Word of God came to John directly. It was not given to the mighty Roman leaders or to the Jewish priests, but to the lowly prophet in the desert.

Note: Jesus referred to John as being the greatest prophet in all history.

Luke 7:26–28 KJV 1900

But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet. This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.

B. Application for Today

- Challenge the congregation to maintain a high view of Scripture as the foundation for ministry, mission, and personal faithfulness.

The Message of John (v. 3)

Luke 3:3 KJV 1900

And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins;

John's message was to exhort the people to repent and tum back to God.

THE PLACE OF THE MESSAGE ‌

The Jordan River begins at Dan with waters flowing from Mt. Hermon.

THE PRACTICE OF THE MESSAGE

The Jews baptized for ritual purification, making it historically unusual for John to be baptizing Jews for repentance. John's baptism was symbolizing the forgiveness they received through repentance. Baptism did not bring forgiveness of sins; repentance did.

Application: Recognize God’s timing and call in our lives to serve His purpose today.

II. Their Exhortation from God’s Word: Make the Crooked Paths Straight

A Prophetic Voice Crying Out (Luke 3:3-6)

Luke 3:3–6 KJV 1900

And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.

Exposition of John’s message of repentance and the vivid imagery of preparing the way for the Lord, based on Isaiah’s prophecy.

A. The Ministry of John (vv. 4-6)

According to the prophecy of Isaiah, John's ministry would have two purposes:

Isaiah 40:3–4 KJV 1900

The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, Make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted, And every mountain and hill shall be made low: And the crooked shall be made straight, And the rough places plain:

TO BE A VOICE

Matthew 11:13 KJV 1900

For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John.

Matthew 3:4 KJV 1900

And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey.

Quote: "The world does not need sermons; it needs a message. You can go to seminary and learn how to preach sermons, but you will have to go to God to get messages." -Oswald J. Smith

TO BE THE FORERUNNER OF CHRIST

More than being the last Old Testament prophet, John was the forerunner of the Messiah. His mission was to prepare Israel spiritually for the coming of their King. The forerunner was a messenger sent before a king to announce the king's soon arrival and oversee the building of a highway suitable for the king to travel on. The highway for the king would need to be as straight and level as possible.

Definition: make smooth, from Greek leios - meaning level.

Quote: "Spiritually speaking, the nation of Israel was living in a wilderness' of unbelief, and the roads to spiritual reality were twisted and in disrepair." -Warren Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary: New Testament

B. John was bringing the message of eternal salvation. (vs. 6)

Luke 3:6 KJV 1900

And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.

The people of Israel were looking for a Messiah who would set them free from Rome's oppression, but the message was deliverance from sin, not human governments.

Definition: shall see in verse 6, from Greek optanomai - meaning at, behold.

Definition: the salvation of God in verse 6, from Greek soterion - meaning saving, bringing salvation. to look

Matthew 3:1–2 KJV 1900

In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Application: Challenge the congregation to be messengers of hope and preparation in our own contexts, making straight paths for others to encounter Jesus.

III. The Proper Response to Their Message: Repent and Believe that Jesus Is Come

Fruits Worthy of Repentance (Luke 3:7-9)

Luke 3:7–9 KJV 1900

Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

Analyze John’s confrontation with the crowd, emphasizing the importance of authentic transformation over mere lineage or tradition.

A. The Imperative of Repentance and Faith

- Delve into the necessity of a personal response to the Gospel, marked by repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

Application: Encourage a self-examination of spiritual fruitfulness and a commitment to genuine change.

As John's message is narrowed down, we will see several characteristics about John's pronouncements to the unbelievers.

1. Bold Pronouncements (v. 7) ​

Luke 3:7 KJV 1900

Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

John was calling for real repentance from the people of Israel. Repentance can be simply defined as turning from sin to God. When he addressed the entire generation as "vipers," he was referencing the sinfulness of the people as well as the misguidance and corruption of the priesthood and religious leaders in Israel.

All men are sinful by nature. In the book of Romans, God gives an accurate description of the sinfulness of man.

Romans 3:10–18 KJV 1900

As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips: Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness: Their feet are swift to shed blood: Destruction and misery are in their ways: And the way of peace have they not known: There is no fear of God before their eyes.

Romans 3:23 KJV 1900

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

2. Practical Pronouncements (vv. 8-9)

Luke 3:8–9 KJV 1900

Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

The second part of John's pronouncement was for the people to bear fruits of repentance.

Matthew 7:16–20 KJV 1900

Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

These verses present the following three tests of true repentance:

OUR WORKS ARE TO BE WORTHY (v. 8a)

John is saying that when true repentance occurs, there will be evidence that gives weight to a person's living that shows repentance unto salvation.

Definition: worthy in verse 8, from Greek axios - meaning having weight of (weighing as much as) another thing, of like value.

Definition: repentance in verse 8, from Greek metanoia - meaning a change of mind.

OUR PEDIGREE WAS NOT ENOUGH (v. 8b)

John references Abraham because the Jews believed that their pedigree as the seed of Abraham and their religion provided salvation to them. But family relations do not save; only Jesus does that.

John 1:12–13 KJV 1900

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

Quote: "There's little difference in ethical behavior between the churched and the unchurched. There's as much pilferage and dishonesty among the churched as the unchurched. And I'm afraid that applies pretty much across the board: religion, per se, is not really life changing. People cite it as important, for instance, in overcoming depression-but it doesn't have primacy in determining behavior:” -George H. Gallup

GOD KNOWS THE ROOTS OF OUR FAITH (v. 9) ​

Luke 3:9 KJV 1900

And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

God will remove false faith. Religion is man's effort to connect with God apart from Jesus. The people of Israel took pride in their traditions and teachers, but refused to accept Jesus.

Quote: "It is a remarkable fact that all the heresies which have arisen in the Christian Church have had a decided tendency to dishonor God and to flatter man." - C.H. Spurgeon ​

Matthew 23:27–28 KJV 1900

Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.

Romans 4:3 KJV 1900

For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.

B. The Cost of Discipleship

Practical Righteousness in Everyday Life (Luke 3:10-14)

Luke 3:10–14 KJV 1900

And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then? He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise. Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you. And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.

Consider John’s specific exhortations to different social groups, highlighting the universal call to ethical living and social justice.

1. A Call to the Realm of the People

- Discuss John's direct engagement with various societal groups, urging them towards ethical living and spiritual readiness.

After John preached his message of repentance, the people asked him the following question: "What shall we do then?"

Philippians 1:9–11 KJV 1900

And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

Quote: "Repentance and faith are not acts performed one time to become a Christian. They are attitudes of the heart toward ourselves and our sin. Faith is not just the way to get saved; it is the lifeline of Christian living." - Tedd Tripp, Shepherding a Child's Heart

a. A Repentant Heart Will Share (v. 11)

Luke 3:11 KJV 1900

He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.

When a person truly repents, they will have a charitable spirit, desiring to give what they can to others.

Quote: "He first teaches the great mass of the people their duty to each other. They were uncharitable and oppressive, and he taught them not to expect any mercy from the hand of God, while they acted toward others in opposition to its dictates." - Adam Clark, The Holy Bible: containing the Old and New Testaments ​

1 Timothy 6:17–19 KJV 1900

Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

2. Influence in the Realm of the Business World

- Examine the implications of John's teachings for honesty, integrity, and generosity in our professional lives.

a. A Repentant Heart Is Honest (vv. 12-13)

Luke 3:12–13 KJV 1900

Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you.

The publicans were many times thieves and cheats. They were given a percentage of the taxes collected as their wages. Many of them would charge a larger sum in taxes a and collect the extra money for themselves.

Luke 19:8 KJV 1900

And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold.

3. Authority and Accountability in the Realm of Government

- Reflect on the role of believers in advocating for justice, righteousness, and godly leadership in civic affairs.

a. A Repentant Heart Is Not Violent (v. 14)

Luke 3:14 KJV 1900

And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.

The soldiers had been gaining financially through violent extortion. They would falsely accuse men of crimes in order to gain money.

Definition: violence in verse 14, from Greek diaseio-meaning to terrify, to agitate, to extort from one by intimidation money or other property.

Romans 12:17–19 KJV 1900

Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

b. A Repentant Heart Is Content (v. 14b)

John admonished the Roman soldiers to be content with their wages. Everyone is commanded to repent and turn to Christ. These outward acts were not a means to be forgiven, but were the evidence of true repentance and turning from sin to Christ.

Hebrews 13:5 KJV 1900

Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

- Consider the example of John the Baptist and Jesus as models of boldness in the face of opposition, emphasizing the call to stand firm in our witness.

Application: Inspire the congregation to apply their faith in practical ways - through acts of kindness, integrity in work, and fairness in dealings.

Conclusion:

Reaffirm the role of each believer as a pioneer in the faith, continually advancing the gospel and preparing the way for the Lord in our generation.

John proclaimed repentance for salvation.

The Bible tells us that all men are sinners, and the penalty of sin is death. But Jesus, the Lamb of God, paid that penalty for us. All we have to do is believe on Him for salvation.

John proclaimed that all should repent.

Repentance is not just something that happens at the moment of salvation. Because the saints are still capable of sinning, they should repent of their sin and turn once again to Jesus Christ.

A call to action: to honor our legacy by living out a pioneering faith that not only remembers the past but also actively shapes the future for Christ’s kingdom.

Reiterate the importance of recognizing ourselves as modern-day pioneers in the faith, continually advancing the Gospel through evangelism, church planting, and discipleship.

Encourage the congregation to embrace their role in this ongoing mission, inspired by the legacy of those who have gone before and fueled by the unchanging truth of God's Word.

Closing Prayer:

Seek God’s blessing and guidance as we commit to being faithful pioneers, making the crooked paths straight for the coming generations, just as John the Baptist did for his.

Close with a prayer of dedication, asking for God's guidance and blessing as the church moves forward in faith and service.