The Example of John the Baptist (Conclusion)

Season 3 Episode 5 -- Let's conclude our look at lessons we can learn from the life of John the Baptist, and some additional ways that we should follow his example and prepare the way of the Lord in our generation.  

"Reflect on This" is a once-a-week, short devotional podcast, where I share what I am learning about following Jesus, through applying eternal biblical principles to life, in practical ways.  Not religion, but RELATIONSHIP - relationship with Jesus!
 
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Resources that inspired some episodes:

"Worship Is My Weapon" podcast by Rita Springer:  https://youtu.be/RucXhr1zYGU?si=WeVTpssmUP4rMXlL 

"My Heart, Christ's Home" by Robert Munger

"The Language of Rivers and Stars" by Seth Lewis

“Dream Small:  The Secret Power of the Ordinary Christian Life” by Seth Lewis

Seth Lewis blog:  https://sethlewis.ie/

35 Bible Verses About Listening To Others (Explained) - Bible Repository 

"Restoration Year: Devotions to Transform Your Relationships, Spirit, and Faith" by John Eldredge

"Boundaries" by Henry Cloud and John Townsend

"The Pleasure of His Company" by Dutch Sheets

"Fresh Air" by Chris Hodges

“The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts” by Gary Chapman

"The Lies We Believe: Renew Your Mind and Transform Your Life" by Dr. Chris Thurman

Featured ministries and resources:
 
“Agape Puppets” (ministry)
This is an amazing world-wide ministry that uses puppet shows to reach children (and their parents) for Christ, in cultures that are generally not very open to the Gospel.  To learn more, go to: https://theagapepuppets.org/ 

"Manufacture Good" (ministry)
Manufacture Good is a Christian ministry that offers paid apprenticeships to men who need a second chance.  These apprentices learn biblical principles, character, and valuable woodworking and metalworking skills which lead to employment opportunities.  You can shop their catalog of fine home and office products, order a standard or custom piece of furniture, make a donation, and learn more about this amazing ministry, at: https://manufacturegood.org/.

"The World and Everything in It" (podcast)
This is a weekday 35-minute podcast that presents headline news, in-depth news articles, media reviews, and opinion pieces from a Christian world view.  Their stated mission is "biblically objective journalism that informs, educates, and inspires."
 
“Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage” (podcast) 
This is a once a week 30-minute podcast hosted by Greg and Erin Smalley, who head up the marriage team at Focus on the Family.  Each episode addresses a different aspect of marriage, using biblical principles, featured guests, practical advice, and a mixture of humor and candidness.  
 
"e-Sword" (Bible study software)
This study tool includes many free (and low-cost) resources, including Bibles, dictionaries, commentaries, and devotionals.  It allows you to simultaneously view verses and their corresponding cross-references, lexicon entries, commentaries, and more.
On your computer, go to e-sword.net
On your mobile device, go to your app store and search for “e-sword.” 

Music credits:
Beauty by MaxKoMusic | https://maxkomusic.com/
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Transcript

Before we get into today’s episode, let me pause to say that I have made an easy way for you to submit your feedback or suggestions for the podcast directly to me.  There is a link at the top of the show notes (in the description of the episode).  If you click on that link, it will open up your messaging app and allow you to send me a text.  Now, on to our episode.

Today, let’s complete our summary of an excellent teaching by Brian Simmons on the ways we should follow the example of John the Baptist.  John’s mission is described initially in Isaiah, and then repeated in the Gospel of Matthew:

Matthew 3:3 NIV  This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: "A voice of one calling in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.'"

In the last episode, we covered 5 specific ways we should follow John the Baptist’s example and, like John, prepare the way of the Lord in our generation.  Here are more ways:

6. Speak Truth with Courage and Compassion

Not [in a] brash, rude or obnoxious [way, but with love and compassion.]

2 Timothy 1:7 HCSB  For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.  

This is the trinity of wisdom.  [All three -- power, love, and sound judgment – are found in genuine wisdom.]

John spoke truth to kings, soldiers, and religious leaders alike. He was fearless, yet faithful.  In an age allergic to correction, the church must rediscover loving boldness. Truth spoken in love is not harsh—it is healing.  

I will add here that, if we are to be Christ-like, both courage and compassion must be present in our thoughts, words, and actions:

1 Corinthians 16:13-14 NASB  Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.  (14)  Let all that you do be done in love.

And, if we need to confront a fellow believer with truth, the Scriptures tell us to do so privately:

Matthew 18:15 AMPC  If your brother wrongs you, go and show him his fault, between you and him privately. If he listens to you, you have won back your brother.

To prepare the way, we shouldspeak truth with courage and compassion.

7. Guard Your Focus

John never deviated from his assignment. He was not distracted by comparison, criticism, or curiosity.  Distraction is one of the enemy’s most effective weapons. A scattered focus weakens authority.

Those who prepare the way remain anchored, discerning, and unwavering—eyes fixed on Jesus alone:

Hebrews 12:1-2 NASB  Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,  (2)  fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

To prepare the way, we should guard our focus and fix our eyes upon Jesus.

8. Know Your Assignment—and Stay True to Your Calling

John refused titles and comparisons. He understood his calling and honored the boundaries of it.

Romans 12:6a NASB  Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly.

Comparison dilutes anointing. Contentment strengthens it. When we honor our unique assignment, heaven entrusts us with more.

To prepare the way, we should know our assignment and stay true to our calling.

9. Finish Faithful—No Matter the Cost

John’s life ended in a prison cell. Yet [Jesus] called him great:  “Among those born of women, there has not arisen anyone greater than John the Baptist” (Matthew 11:11a).

Faithfulness is not measured by comfort or acclaim, but by obedience unto the end. Even in doubt, even in suffering, John remained true.

Preparing the way of the Lord means staying faithful when it’s costly—trusting that obedience always carries eternal weight.

Will you join me and others in following the example of John the Baptist -- to make room in our lives for the presence of Jesus, and to be a generation who prepares the way of the Lord?

Today, I encourage you to “Reflect on This.”