Prepare the Way

Be An Original

Luke 1:13-17, Matthew 3:1-6

  When you think about John the Baptist, what comes to mind? 

“PREPARE THE WAY OF THE LORD! PREPARE THE WAY!”

Who was John the Baptist? (Luke 1:13-17)

1)   There was great joy and gladness at his birth. (vs 14)

a.    God takes joy in you as His unique creation.

2)   He was great in the eyes of the Lord. (vs. 15a)

a.    You have great Kingdom purpose. 

3)   He was filled with the Holy Spirit. (vs. 15b)

a.    You are “packed to the gills” with spiritual gifts.

4)   He turned the hearts of the people. (vs. 17)

a.    You are empowered to be a heart-turner.

You can prepare the way for others to know the Lord by being an original: (Matthew 3:1-6)

1)   Discover your purpose as defined by God.

-      “Repent of your sins.” (vs. 2a)

This is not a popular message:  There’s pushback on repentance.

2)   Step into your gifts.

-      “…turn to God…” (vs. 2b)

 3)   Lead others to Christ.

-      “…for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.”  (vs. 2c)