“Without God, I could do nothing,” proclaims a gospel song, which continues, “I’m leaning and depending on Jesus.” We might nod at the lyrics and sing along, but perhaps we could ponder how much we really live out our faith in this wholehearted fashion. Do we depend on Jesus fully? Do we know in our head and our heart that our sins are forgiven?
As we consider what or Whom we depend on, we can learn from John the Baptist. He explodes onto the scene in the manner of Old Testament prophets as he calls people to repent. His message strikes the hearts of those assembled, and they ask what they should do (Luke 3:10). His reply illustrates the fruit that comes from love for one’s neighbour. When the people start to wonder if he could be the Messiah, he quickly points to the coming of Jesus, who will baptise “with the Holy Spirit and fire” (v. 16).
God gives us the power to change. When we repent, He washes us clean from our wrongdoing and fills us with His Spirit. We no longer are bound with shame over our sins but are set free. We can love God and our neighbour as we depend on the strength and love of Jesus, walking with Him day by day.
Know that God helps us to live by His power and sets us free from our sins.
By Amy Boucher Pye
REFLECT & PRAY
How do you think John the Baptist would tell you to prepare the way for the Lord? How can you depend on Jesus as you ask Him to make you more like Him?
Saving Jesus, thank You for working within me through Your Spirit, cleansing me from wrongdoing and helping me to produce fruit. Make me more like You.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Luke, the writer of the third gospel, has an impressive resume. His credits include theologian, physician (Colossians 4:14), researcher, and historian. His attention to historical detail appears early in the book (see Luke 1:3–5; 2:1–2). This pattern continues in Luke 3:1–2 where he briefly notes the secular and religious ruling authorities during the ministry of John the Baptist. The Roman emperor Tiberius (ruled AD 14–37) was over the entire empire. Pontius Pilate (in office AD 26–36) was a provincial ruler who governed in Judea. Three men (Herod [Antipas], Philip, and Lysanias) are said to be tetrarchs. Literally the word tetrarch means “ruler of a fourth,” but it actually referred to a “ruler of lower rank.” These subordinate leaders were over particular territories. Religious leaders—Annas and Caiaphas—also come into view (v. 2). Though Caiaphas actually held the office of high priest, clearly Annas shared the power of that office with him.
Arthur Jackson
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