JOHN THE BAPTIST PREPARES THE WAY

Matthew 3:1-17
Key Verse: 3:2

   "...and saying, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.'"


 1. Read verses 1-3. Where did John the Baptist preach? What was his
   message?  What was the holy mission God had given him through
   Isaiah? (3; Isa 40:3)  What does it mean to repent?  What does it
   mean that the kingdom of heaven is near?

2. Read verse 4-6. What does John's lifestyle show about him? How did
   the people respond to him? What does this show about them? What did
   baptism by John mean?

3. Read verses 7-10. Why did John rebuke the religious leaders? What
   were they proud of?  Why was this pride groundless? What evidence of
   real faith does God seek in his people?  What happens to those who
   do not repent?

4. Read verses 11-12. How did John witness to Jesus? What did he
   believe about Jesus?

5. Read verses 13-15. Why did Jesus insist on being baptized by John?
   What does this show about him? Read verses 16-17. What happened? How
   did God witness to Jesus? Why did God give him the Holy Spirit at
   this time? Why was God pleased with Jesus?