Jesus commanded his followers to announce the same message he preached: He summarized it as the “Good News of the Kingdom of God.” His Church would establish this Kingdom in unexpected and paradoxical ways. By his return, his sovereignty over all nations will be established and his “enemies” will be subdued, including the last one, “death.” Until then, his disciples must proclaim his message to the “uttermost parts of the Earth.”
Showing posts with label Spirit. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Spirit. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
Thursday, January 25, 2024
In Spirit and Fire
John the Baptist proclaimed a baptism in water “for the remission of sins,” and he announced the arrival of the “Coming One.” He was sent to prepare the way for the Messiah as promised in Isaiah - “Behold, I send my messenger before your face… The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare the way of the Lord.” He would be the King of Israel who baptizes his people “in Spirit and Fire.”
The Forerunner
All four gospel accounts apply the same passage from the Book of Isaiah to John the Baptist, the messenger who summoned men to repent “for the remission of sins” in preparation for the Messiah. The passage identifies John as the forerunner who was expected before the “Day of the LORD” - “The voice of one crying, in the wilderness, prepare the way of the LORD” - (Isaiah 40:3-5).