We'll see that John the Baptist was perplexed and perhaps discouraged.
You know, sometimes we think of Bible characters as superhuman, or superholy.
But no, they were men and women just like you and me.
John the Baptist – the greatest man born of woman was discouraged.
He had served God faithfully, but was yet in prison.
His work was ended and he was not sure that Jesus was ministering in the right way.
When you find yourself in a similar situation - do what John did: tell it to Jesus and wait for His word.
John's disciples did not hear Jesus praise their leader.
John was not a compromiser or a celebrity - he was God's greatest prophet.
John was in prison because of a cruel king and a crowd that was childish, instead of child-like.
Leave the judgment to the Lord and wait for Him to fulfill His perfect plan.
You may think that you've failed, but God will see to it that your work is blessed. Thank you, Lord!
In fact, John won people to Jesus long after he was dead and buried.
Surrender to Christ's loving yoke and you will experience His perfect rest.
We'll read about hostility.
The religious leaders were waiting for an opportunity to attack Jesus, and He deliberately gave it to them.
What a tragedy to be burdened by legalism, when you can enjoy true Sabbath rest.
When Jesus is your Lord, all of life becomes a Sabbath, and every place is God's temple – even a grainfield.
And of course, we'll be reading about hypocrisy.
The Pharisees were concerned about keeping the Sabbath, but not about showing love to a man with a handicapping condition.
Jesus wants mercy, not sacrifice.
Do you use people, ... or serve them?
We'll read about victory.
Jesus is the stronger man who has invaded Satan's house, overcomed him, taking his weapons, and is now claiming his spoils.
Put on the full armour and join Him in victory.
We'll read about neutrality.
Beware an empty life – it's a standing invitation for Satan to go to work.
In the spiritual war being waged today, you cannot be neutral – you are either for Him, or against Him.
God can forgive all sins except the sin of rejecting His Son.
Something very important for us as believers – God's children cannot commit an unpardonable sin.
All their sins were forgiven when they trusted Jesus.
Yoke – part of the plough that is attached to the buffalo.
legalism – following the rules & law blindly.
sabbath – the day designated by God as a rest day for the Jews. (Saturday)
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