Our Need of Cleansing

Rebellion to God’s ways necessitates our cleansing ()

Explanation: Mark introduces his Gospel account with citations from the OT. He combines a passage from , , and to paint a picture from Israel’s past regarding the 2 Exodus events (the first from Egypt, the second from Babylon)

God had delivered His people from Egypt, and they still rebelled, resulting in His sending His Angel () instead of Himself (lest He consume them in His holiness). The Isaiah passage was a prophecy concerning the people making ready for Yahweh to lead His people back from Babylon. The Malachi passage is a recognition that the people were still in disobedience and that Yahweh was once again sending a messenger to prepare the way for the Messiah

Illustration: The troops are given new uniforms and clean shoes for the Kaiser’s inspection. After he leaves, the troops have to turn in the new stuff and take back the rags. (All Quiet on the Western Front)

Argument: John the Baptist was the fulfillment of the prophecy. He was the messenger to prepare the way for the Messiah. His mission was to bring awareness that the long-awaited Messiah was on the way. He also brought awareness to the people’s need for cleansing. They were not living in a manner worthy of the Messiah

Application: Are we guilty of superficial cleaning on Sundays? Do we “clean ourselves up” for church and then go right back to sinful living Monday - Saturday?

Recognition of our condition is seen in repentance ()

Explanation: John’s message was that of repentance. The word repent means to experience a change of mind from evil to good. (The Complete Word Study Dictionary NT, Zodhiates, entry 3341, p. 970)

Holman Treasury of Key Bible Words: 200 Greek and 200 Hebrew Words Defined and Explained Repentance

The Greek word for “repentance” is a compound word derived from meta, meaning “after,” and suggesting “some type of change,” and nous, meaning “mind.” Thus, metanoia strictly denotes “a change of mind”—a rejection of past sinful ways. But it also connotes remorse for sin, accompanied by a desire to turn away from one’s sin and to God for salvation. Such repentance accompanies faith in Christ (Acts 20:21).

Illustrate: military formation and the command is given: about face, march. It is a U-Turn.

Argument: To repent is to perform a U-Turn in life. Apart from Christ we live life for ourselves, we do what we want to do, and we aren’t concerned about the things of God. When repentance comes, a radical transformation occurs. The sinner becomes a saint, and his or her life is forever changed. Biblical repentance has results that are evidenced in the life of the believer ()

Application: There is a difference between feeling sorry and repenting. While baptism is important, it does not save. There is an eternal difference between will power (which doesn’t last) and the power of God. If there is no lasting change in your life, you probably haven’t been regenerated

Restoration from our rebellion is secured in Jesus ()

Explanation: John understands that his baptism is limited in scope and power. John knows that it is not enough. That is why he points the people to Jesus. John knows that Jesus is the One worthy of worship and obedience. J

John introduces the people to the reality of the Holy Spirit. He tells his audiences that unlike his water, ritual baptism, the baptism that Jesus brings will be supernatural. Jesus will immerse (absolutely identify with) believers with the indwelling of the Holy Spirit

Illustrate: a person can carry medication around with him. He can keep it close at all times, even in the car. But it will not do any good until it is internalized.

Argument: Unless the Holy Spirit actively convicts a person of sin, that person will never see his need for salvation. Jesus told the unbelieving Jews that “no one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him.” () The role of the Holy Spirit is to convict a person of sin:

John 16:8–10 ESV

And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer;

Application: Christianity is a relationship with a living Savior who is also the Lord of your life. As we prepare to worship through observing the Lord’s Table, let each of us examine our hearts. While perfection in this life is not possible, we are called to live in harmony with our brothers and sisters and to remain unspotted before the world. During the time of response, be obedient to the leading of the Holy Spirit in your life.