John Preaching in the Wilderness

Matthew 3:16; Mark 1:16; Luke 3:24, Luke 3:11, Luke 3:14
In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 3:12

John the Baptist lived in the wilderness of Judea (see Matthew 3:1; Luke 3:2). He wore clothes made of camel's hair and a leather belt around his waist. He ate locusts and wild honey. (See Matthew 3:4; Mark 1:6.)

John traveled throughout Jordan preaching repentance and baptism for the remission of sins. His mission was to prepare the people for the coming of Jesus Christ. He told them the Lord would soon come and they had to be ready to meet Him. (See Matthew 3:23; Mark 1:24; Luke 3:34.) Many people repented, and John baptized them in the Jordan River (see Matthew 3:56; Mark 1:5). He also taught the people to treat others with kindness and to share what they had with those who were in need (see Luke 3:11, Luke 3:14).

Summary

John the Baptist was a prophet who lived in the wilderness of Judea. His mission was to prepare people for the coming of Jesus Christ. John taught the people repentance and baptism for the remission of sins. Many believed his words and came to be baptized.

Artist, Del Parson

My Word: Almost all pictures we see of John has him wearing very rough clothing. But I was watching TV this past week and saw a picture of a Middle Eastern man (I cannot remember who) that raised specific camels to use their hair for weaving his clothing. The fabric was beautiful. Is it possible that John wore a very nice cloak? He was a Nazarite and therefore forbidden to cut any of his hair while under his oath. But personally I do not believe he looked like a wildman....but a man with reverence and dignity for his mission. You can read more about John in the BD.

Remember that the people are in a state of apostasy. They hadn't had a prophet for almost 400 years. Apparently what John preached to the people was accepted by the Jewish leaders as it doesn't appear that they gave John any trouble. What did he preach? Try here paying particular attention to #4.

How and why did John die? What was Jesus' reaction to learning of John's death? How did Jesus describe John?

John's integrity is something to be admired. He never sought for the honor that the people tried to give him. He continually pointed them to the Messiah and once Jesus started His ministry the people left John and followed Christ; as they should. There is no record of John showing jealousy...what a man.

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