Character Study Of John The Baptist Series

CHARACTER STUDY OF JOHN THE BAPTIST – THE FORERUNNER OF CHRIST

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 3:1-6

"In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, and saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."

Supporting Texts: Mark 1:1-8, Luke 1:5-25, John 1:6-8, John 3:28-30, Matthew 11:11

INTRODUCTION:

John the Baptist was a prophet chosen by God to prepare the way for Jesus Christ. He was the son of Zechariah and Elizabeth, conceived miraculously in their old age. His mission was to call people to repentance and baptise them in preparation for the coming of the Messiah. His life was marked by humility, boldness, and a deep commitment to God's purpose.

John’s role as the forerunner of Christ was prophesied in Isaiah 40:3 and Malachi 3:1. He lived a simple life in the wilderness, clothed in camel's hair and eating locusts and wild honey. His ministry was powerful, attracting multitudes, including tax collectors, soldiers, and even religious leaders. Though he was highly regarded, he remained humble, always pointing people to Jesus.

1. JOHN THE BAPTIST WAS A PROPHET CHOSEN FROM BIRTH

a) His birth was announced by an angel (Luke 1:13-17)

The angel Gabriel told Zechariah that his son would be great in the sight of the Lord.

b) He was filled with the Holy Spirit from the womb (Luke 1:15)

Even before birth, John was set apart for God’s mission.

c) His mission was to prepare the way for the Messiah (Isaiah 40:3, Luke 1:76-77)

His calling was to turn people’s hearts toward repentance.

d) He lived a consecrated life (Luke 1:80, Matthew 3:4)

He stayed in the wilderness, away from worldly distractions.

e) Biblical Example: Samuel was also chosen from birth for a divine mission (1 Samuel 1:11, 1 Samuel 3:19-21).

2. JOHN PREACHED REPENTANCE AND BAPTISM

a) He preached a message of repentance (Matthew 3:2)

He called people to turn away from sin and prepare for the kingdom of God.

b) He baptised those who repented (Matthew 3:5-6)

Baptism was a sign of cleansing and commitment to a changed life.

c) He rebuked religious hypocrisy (Matthew 3:7-10)

He warned the Pharisees and Sadducees that true repentance produces fruit.

d) His baptism was a forerunner of the baptism of the Holy Spirit (Mark 1:8)

He baptised with water, but Jesus would baptise with the Holy Spirit and fire.

e) Biblical Example: Jonah also preached repentance to the people of Nineveh, and they repented (Jonah 3:5-10).

3. JOHN POINTED PEOPLE TO JESUS CHRIST

a) He recognised Jesus as the Lamb of God (John 1:29)

He publicly declared that Jesus was the One who takes away sin.

b) He testified that Jesus was greater than him (John 3:30)

He said, "He must increase, but I must decrease," showing his humility.

c) He acknowledged that Jesus would baptise with the Holy Spirit (John 1:33)

He understood that his mission was temporary, but Jesus’ ministry was eternal.

d) He directed his disciples to follow Jesus (John 1:35-37)

When Jesus appeared, John pointed his disciples to Him, showing selflessness.

e) Biblical Example: Andrew also brought Peter to Jesus, directing others to Christ (John 1:40-42).

4. JOHN WAS BOLD IN CONFRONTING SIN

a) He confronted King Herod’s sin (Mark 6:17-18)

He boldly rebuked Herod for taking his brother’s wife.

b) He was not afraid to call out hypocrisy (Matthew 3:7)

He openly condemned the religious leaders for their false piety.

c) He stayed committed to truth, even at the cost of his life (Mark 6:27-28)

His fearless preaching led to his imprisonment and eventual execution.

d) His message was not influenced by public opinion (Luke 3:19-20)

He spoke the truth regardless of how people felt about it.

e) Biblical Example: Elijah also confronted King Ahab and Jezebel about their wickedness (1 Kings 18:17-18).

5. JOHN EXPERIENCED DOUBT BUT REMAINED FAITHFUL

a) He sent messengers to ask if Jesus was truly the Messiah (Matthew 11:2-3)

In prison, he had moments of doubt and sought confirmation.

b) Jesus reassured him through His works (Matthew 11:4-6)

Jesus pointed to the miracles as proof of His identity.

c) Jesus praised John’s greatness (Matthew 11:11)

Jesus declared that no one born of women was greater than John.

d) His faith remained strong despite trials (Luke 7:28)

Even with doubts, he never abandoned his calling.

e) Biblical Example: Thomas also doubted but later believed (John 20:24-29).

6.  STRENGTHS OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

a) He was a fearless preacher of repentance (Matthew 3:1-2, Luke 3:3)

He spoke boldly without compromise.

b) He was deeply committed to his divine calling (Luke 1:80, John 1:23)

He lived a life of total dedication to his mission.

c) He displayed great humility (John 3:28-30)

He recognised Jesus as greater and willingly stepped aside.

d) He was filled with the Holy Spirit from birth (Luke 1:15)