Luke 3

What did I learn about Jesus?

He had the total support and affirmation of the Father and the Spirit.

What did I learn about disciple-making?

We must prepare our hearts and humbly bear the fruits of a changed life.
We never simply “wait,” but all waiting is a preparation for action.

Extended thoughts and observations from congregation member Tom Gray:

In this chapter Luke shifts the focus to John who is preparing the way for Jesus.

I was struck by John’s very direct and clear instruction to those who would be baptized. In verse 3, he told them to be baptized to show they wanted to change their lives and then their sins would be forgiven. In verse 7 he says “You are all snakes! Who warned you to run away from God’s anger that is coming? Change your hearts! And show by your lives that you have changed.” Then in verses 11- 14 he tells them what a changed life looks like.

In verse 16-18 again John is very direct about the coming of Christ and to encourage the people to change.

My take away today is a clear message about what is means to be baptized in the name of the Lord. John, Jesus and the Lord God expect me to be a changed person and show clearly in my life that I have changed. Am I bearing fruit or will I be cut down with and thrown into the fire?

Thoughts from Elder Gregg Colbo:

One thing that jumped off the page to me was the realization that in verses 21 and 22 all three persons comprising our Triune God were present for Jesus’ baptism. Can you imagine how powerful that must have been? Wow!

On a completely separate note, verse 23 is a reminder to me that even Jesus had a ramping up period before he went “out.” We also have time periods to prepare and a time in which to begin to act; but never a time to simply “wait.” Our God is a God of action!