Jeremiah 3-4, Ecclesiastes 2:1-16, John 1:19-28, James 1:12-18 

John 1:19-28:

[Note: As we go through John’s Gospel together over the next few weeks, I will refer you to fuller comments in my commentary on John’s Gospel, as well as Bible study guide.]

Take, then, and read a full analysis of this section of John, and instead this morning simply reflect on the following bullet points:

• John the Baptist’s ministry is often seen as an exemplary model of preaching. Can you see why that might be the case? What is it about John’s deliberate and determined point to Christ that is an example that all preachers might seek to emulate?
• John the Baptist is also often seen as an exemplary model of witness to Christ in general. How might you this morning make a fresh commitment to point people to Christ? In what ways is it important not merely to do good works of kindness but also declare that the real source of life comes in Christ himself?
• According to John the Baptist, the Old Testament, specifically Isaiah 40:3, points to Christ. Is this how to read the Old Testament? What difference might it make if we read the whole Bible as a story which speaks of the Savior?