John The Baptist

Scripture: Matthew 11:7-15 (Click link for scripture in Bible Gateway)

7 As John’s disciples were leaving, Jesus began talking about him to the crowds. “What kind of man did you go into the wilderness to see? Was he a weak reed, swayed by every breath of wind? 8 Or were you expecting to see a man dressed in expensive clothes? No, people with expensive clothes live in palaces. 9 Were you looking for a prophet? Yes, and he is more than a prophet. 10 John is the man to whom the Scriptures refer when they say, ‘Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, and he will prepare your way before you.’ 11 “I tell you the truth, of all who have ever lived, none is greater than John the Baptist. Yet even the least person in the Kingdom of Heaven is greater than he is! 12 And from the time John the Baptist began preaching until now, the Kingdom of Heaven has been forcefully advancing, and violent people are attacking it. 13 For before John came, all the prophets and the law of Moses looked forward to this present time. 14 And if you are willing to accept what I say, he is Elijah, the one the prophets said would come. 15 Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand! (Matthew 11:7–15 NLT)

It almost seemed rude, the way Jesus actually sent John’s disciples back to John in prison without also sending some kind and comforting words for John. But these words Jesus spoke to the crowds about John are a wonderful tribute to him and to his faithfulness. This is like the master’s words to the diligent servant in Jesus’ parable: “Well done, good and faithful servant!”

I believe Jesus is saying that John’s prophetic declaration of faith actually began the Kingdom’s forward movement. Like the starter who fires his pistol to start the race, John’s bold preaching set the advancement of God’s Kingdom in motion. Jesus picked up the message and, by his words and power, accelerated its momentum. The Kingdom of God is a threat to the status quo—the status quo then and the status quo now! If we declare the message of the advancing Kingdom of God, we’ll face some opposition as well—opposition from the Gates of Hell! But be encouraged friends, because then, now, and forever, God’s Kingdom is forcefully advancing! Each born-again soul and transformed life is God’s Kingdom advance!

Prayer:

Father, Thank you that we can be citizens and active participants in your Kingdom. Thanks for all who have faithfully gone before us, moving the Kingdom forward in their day. May we be faithful in our generation as they were in theirs. May your Kingdom come and your will be done! Amen!