John the Baptist Prepares the Way (Matthew 3:1-2)
Understand It
- What famous preacher is described in this passage? (3:1)
- Where was John the Baptist’s "sanctuary" or "pulpit"? (3:1)
- What was John’s message? (3:2)
- Why was John’s ministry significant? (3:3)
- What did John look like? (3:4)
- What kind of unusual diet did John follow? (3:4)
- How did people receive John’s message? (3:5)
- Besides strong preaching, what went on at John’s "desert revival meetings"? (3:6)
- Where did John perform his baptisms? Who came? (3:5-6)
- What kinds of religious leaders came to listen to John? (3:7)
- What harsh name did John call the religious leaders? Why? (3:7-10)
- What was John’s message to the local "men of the cloth"? (3:7-10)
- What was the purpose of John’s water baptism? (3:11)
- How did John compare himself to the one who would come after him? (3:11)
- How did John describe the type of baptism Jesus would bring? (3:11)
- With what images did John describe Jesus? (3:12)
Apply It
- What could you do this week to encourage your pastor or preacher?
- What first step could you take toward obeying God better today?
- What particular sin(s) do you need to repent of today?
The Baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:13-17)
Understand It
- Where did Jesus come from? Why? (3:13)
- Why did Jesus leave Galilee and travel to the Jordan River? (3:13)
- How did John react to Jesus’ request? (3:14)
- What exactly did John say to Jesus? (3:14)
- How did Jesus respond to John’s reluctance? (3:15)
- Why was it important for John to comply with Jesus’ request? (3:15)
- What change took place in heaven after the baptism of Jesus? (3:16)
- How did the Spirit of God play a role in the baptism of Jesus? (3:16)
- What was the Spirit’s appearance? (3:16)
- What kind of voice was heard at the baptism of Jesus? (3:17)
- What was the relationship between Jesus and the Father? (3:17)
- What did God the Father say about Jesus? (3:17)
Apply It
- What could you do today for Christ out of obedience and respect for Him?
- What needs to change this week in order for you to see the Spirit of God work in and through your life?
