Luke 3:1-20

John the Baptist was the prototype for Christian preachers.

He had the three point system down pat, with a kicker at the end.

First – THE MESSAGE - John was pointed and succinct. He repeated often to any one who would listen – ‘Turn away from (repent of) your sins, be baptized and God will forgive you’.

Then came an opportunity for a RESPONSE to the message. ‘Crowds of people’ came out to be baptized, but John never relented in revealing that God expected more from people than name dropping or status or tradition. Individuals had to respond for themselves. They seemed lost, and asked John, ‘what are we to do?’.

Now that is a question every preacher waits for. Like John, when the opportunity is presented, we recommend ACTION. In John’s case, he preached an outreach program to share our good fortunes (clothing and food) with the less fortunate. He suggested honesty and integrity in business and personal dealings, and suggested that his listeners be content with what they had, rather than be envious of others.

Circumstances have not altered much, as preachers in the 21^st century follow a similar pattern, namely the MESSAGE, the RESPONSE and the ACTION.

Sometimes our preaching can get us into hot water, or as in John’s case, prison. There is always a price to pay, and it is often worth it.

Question – what is your RESPONSE to the MESSAGE and the recommended ACTION?

Monday's reading: Luke 3:21 - 4:13

(Today's post submitted by guest writer, Rev. Hollis Hiscock)