By Peter Kaye |

A friend came across a sermon which declared John the Baptist came to promote social justice. Oh dear, God wouldn't have been pleased that the arrival of his Son, the saviour of the world, was sidelined by the belief that good works were more important. Listen to this to hear John's true commission from God.

Here are Rev. Dr Malcolm Gill's main points...

  • Like any sincere gift, what God gives us - the beauty around us, food, the joy of laughter, the offer of eternal life - means more than the gift itself.
  • God wants a relationship with each and every one of us. And that's only possible through Jesus.
  • Jesus IS the Son of God.
  • For us, his creatures, a relationship with God has always been part of the plan.
  • Just as the prophets point to God in the Old Testament, John the Baptist comes, as the spirit of Elijah, to point to God through Jesus in the New Testament.
  • A relationship with God is possible for ALL sinners. Wanting to be changed and acknowledging Jesus' death on the Cross is all that is required. No sin is too big for God to forgive.
  • John isn't the focus of this passage, it's Jesus.
  • Enjoying a relationship with God is a choice each individual has to make. Repenting (saying sorry and wanting to  live for God, not ourselves) is the only reuirement. Not trying harder to be a good person, going to church... or anything else.
  • God offers us so much more in life. More than our careers, good holidays, a healthy bank balance.
  • John the Baptist's message of salvation is as true today as it was 2,000 years ago. Repent and Believe! That's what will give the certainty of eternal life.  going to church, doing good works!
  • The Believers Prayer. No magic! Simply words that will change your life for ever if said honestly to God...
    • "I am not worthy to be accepted by you.
    • I am guilty of rebelling against you and ignoring you.
    • Thank you for sending Jesus to die for me,
    • For paying my debt, bearing my punishment that I may be forgiven.
    • Please forgive me and,
    • change me that I may live with Jesus, my ruler.
    • Amen."

 

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