The Story of Jesus John Who Was Jesus' Forerunner (Lesson 04)
Introduction:
1. To help us grow in our knowledge of Christ (2 Peter 3:18) we are studying "The Story of Jesus." 2. In this lesson we are examining passages that teach us about John who was Jesus' forerunner.
Discussion:
I. THE OLD TESTAMENT CONTAINS PROPHECIES RELATING TO JOHN
A. Isaiah 40:3 B. Malachi 3:1 C. Malachi 4:5-6
II. WE READ ABOUT JOHN'S BIRTH IN LUKE
A. (Luke 1:5-17) An angel announced John's birth to Zacharias and Elisabeth. B. (Luke 1:24-25) Elisabeth conceived. C. (Luke 1:57-64) John was born. D. (Luke 1:80) John grew.
III. JOHN HAD A SPECIAL MISSION
A. (John 1:6-8) God sent John to fulfill a special purpose. B. (Mark 1:1-8) John preached, baptized, and announced the coming of Christ. C. As he preached, John: 1. taught people how to live (Luke 3:10-14) 2. rebuked religious hypocrites (Matthew 3:7-12) 3. pointed people to Jesus (John 1:29, 35-37).
IV. JOHN BECAME DISCOURAGED IN PRISON (Matthew 11:1-6)
V. JOHN WAS HIGHLY COMMENDED BY JESUS (Matthew 11:7-15)
VI. JOHN'S DEATH IS RECORDED IN MATTHEW 14:1-12
VII. JOHN'S BAPTISM IS NO LONGER VALID (Acts 18:24-28; 19:1-7)
