Preparing for Peace

INTRO: Before The Lexham Bible Dictionary

Tiberius (AD 14-37) Ruled during the life of Jesus. Known as an emperor of great ability but poor character.

PILATE - Roman governor of Judaea from AD 26–36/37. Hated Jews.

Herod Antipas - son of Herod the Great. Took brother’s wife.

Philip the tetrarch; husband of Herodias.

Annas - deposed high priest

Caiphas - son-in-law of Annas, High Priest

All these leaders didn’t hinder the word of God - will not return to Him void.

The WORD of God found JOHN the Baptist near the Jordan.

nothing and no one can stop God’s plan.

God’s word will find YOU - John in the wilderness.

John- preached a “baptism of repentance of sin.” No salvation, just preparation.

JOHNS BAPTISM = an outward sign of an inward change.

JESUS’ BAPTISM = an inward change that manifests in outward actions.

Many times we reflect on the outward. But God knows the heart.

No heart change = temporary outward.

vs 4-6. Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.

Every valley shall be filled in, every mountain and hill made low.

The crooked roads shall become straight, the rough ways smooth.

ILLUS: Ways clear for the King. Ways clear for the President.

With all the evil firmly established, John had to get the hearts right before Jesus showed up.

God spoke through Isaiah to warn people that Jesus, His Messiah, would soon be revealed to them.

Israelites wandered in the Wilderness = to build their courage.

Jesus tempted in the Wilderness = to be strengthened in the Spirit.

John in the Wilderness = to fulfill the scripture IS 40:3-5 “3 A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. 4 Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. 5 And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all people will see it together. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”

You need a WILDERNESS Experience where God’s JESUS SPEAK TO YOU; word will find you; build your courage; strengthen your spirit; experience the Lords PROVISIONS.