Pastor Chris Doi
Japanese Christian Church
Matthew 3:1-2: In those days John the Baptist began preaching in the Judean wilderness. His message was, 2 “Turn from your sins and turn to God, because the Kingdom of Heaven is near.”
Of all the prophets in God’s Word, I have always admired John the Baptist. He was one who did not seem to mind living out in the wilderness, wearing a simple outfit of camel’s hair and living off of locust and wild honey. We read in Matthew 3:1-2, “Now in those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ For this is the one referred to by Isaiah the prophet when he said, ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness, make ready the way of the Lord, Make His paths straight.
John, like many prophets knew his role well; and that was to be used as a mouthpiece to convey God’s message. Here he was paving the way for the coming Messiah: Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
People’s hearts were convicted and they confessed of their sins. God was indeed calling them from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of heaven.
We today have someone like John the Baptist in our lives. He is the Holy Spirit who convicts us of our sins and moves us to repentance and faith. Where would we be without the love of God conveyed through His Son Jesus and the loving guidance of the Holy Spirit?
So when God convicts your heart of unconfessed sins, immediately ask Him for forgiveness and commit yourself to live a transformed life for Him.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for convicting our hearts of our sins and for your loving grace. Amen
Great reflection Chris. One of the things I love is that many people saw that God was doing something and were drawn to it. I hear a couple of challenges there for me 1) will I look to see what God is doing and 2) will I respond with cooperation and humility as many of those who came to the Jordan. Give me eyes to see today what you are doing, and a Yes heart.
I reflected on the msg this Sunday and I come to know that God loves us much,the convictions are for our own good to draw us closer and not further.
I understand I should not judge myself from the wrong I did yesterday and allow God to guide me and do better for today.
Conviction is a start of commitment to keep my relationship with God in check-I’m serious about my father’s will and what He expect’s of me in all my ways I represent Him.
I love the connection of the Holy Spirit to John the Baptist. I find it helpful as I consider the Spirit’s conviction in my life. Thanks Chris!
Thanks for the encouraging and reminding word Chris. I’m not the Holy Spirit, simply a vessel to respond and mouthpiece to speak as the Spirit leads. This will speak to people and their hearts to seek Jesus. Spot on…amen!