Prepare the Way
January 24, 2021
How should followers of Jesus respond to the chaos and discord of the world around us? The launching of Jesus’ ministry offers us an unexpected answer. Join us for part two of Inception where we explore the message of Jesus’ cousin John and how that message and Jesus’ response helps us begin the process of changing the world around us.
Passage (read it):
Principles (know them):
The mission to change the world begins with the person in the mirror.
Practices (do them):
Practice humility:
- Begin with the person in the mirror
- John 3:30, Matthew 7:1-5
Practice repentance:
- Isaiah 40:3-5
- What do you need to do to prepare the way for Jesus?
- What valleys need filling in? (Gaps in your integrity)
- What mountains need to be leveled? (Behaviors, habits, addictions you need to surrender)
- What crooked paths do I need to straighten? (Where are you taking short-cuts?)
- What rough places do I need to smooth out? (Character flaws you need to address)
- See this week’s small group discussion guide
Practice endurance:
Daily Readings:
Jesus said that John the Baptist was the greatest person ever born. That is quite a compliment! This week’s readings all focus on John, his life, ministry, and death. As you read these passages, ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to what made Jesus think so much of John and how you might learn from his example.
Day 1: Isaiah 40; Malachi 3-4
Day 2: Luke 1
Day 3: Luke 3
Day 4: Matthew 3
Day 5: Mark 1; John 1
Day 6: Matthew 14; Mark 6
Day 7: Luke 7
Suggested Resources:
Books:
Luke for Everyone, by N.T. Wright
Other sermon series (visit the sermon page):
Beginnings: John the Witness (February 1, 2015)
Becoming Less (April 19, 2015)
selfLESS (September 2018)