Matthew 3:1-12

Main Idea: John’s ministry was all about Jesus.

Introduction

I have previously preached the first two chapters of Matthew in four sermons. We will continue to go through Matthew in sections, taking breaks after each section.

E. Renan said that Matthew’s Gospel is the most important book ever written.

“Matthew’s Gospel stressed four aspects. 14 First, Jesus is the Messiah, the long-awaited King of God’s people. Second, Jesus is the new Abraham, the founder of a new spiritual Israel consisting of all people who choose to follow him, including both Jews and Gentiles. Third, Jesus is the new Moses, the deliverer and instructor of God’s people. Fourth, Jesus is the Immanuel, the virgin-born Son of God who fulfills the promises of the OT. Matthew was concerned not only to preserve Jesus’ teachings, record his deeds, or commend his example, but especially to explain who Jesus was. Matthew’s Gospel might best be described as a “theological biography,” a historical account of Jesus’ life and teachings that explains his spiritual significance.” ( The Lion and the Lamb page 57)

John’s Message (v.2 & 7-12)

John came preaching repentance of sins.

Repentance alone is not the gospel! We do not need moralistic therapeutic deism.

We must repent of sin and turn to Christ!

John’s Boldness (v.7-12)

John was a bold and unique man!

His dress and behavior resembled the prophet Elijah. Jesus even tells us that John came in the spirit of Elijah.

John called out the religious and political leaders of his time. This literally cost him his head.

We must be bold to call out sin!

Jesus’ Identity (v.3 & 11-12)

Matthew’s quotation of Isaiah tells us that Jesus is God in flesh.

Jesus is also coming to bring salvation and judgement.

Repent and Believe in Jesus!