Scriptures Cited: John 14:2; 1 John 2:6; Luke 7:28; Psalm 139:16; Mark 1:7; John 3:30; John 1:1; Matthew 9:37; Matthew 5:13-14, 16; Mark 1:14-15; Acts 2:37-38; John 3:16; Romans 3:23; Luke 1:46-47; James 2:10; 1 Corinthians 3:6; Matthew 16:18
Introduction
This year has seen lots of radical behavior
Riots/vandalism/looting/etc.
That behavior is not encouraged in the Bible
But we are called to live radical faith
John the Baptist lived a radical faith
God’s Messenger (vs 1-4)
He was Humble
John’s job was to point people toward Jesus
He was Available
John wasn’t too busy that he couldn’t serve
People often have busy lives that consume time
He was Unusual
John looked different than others
Wilderness living/diet/clothing/message
True faith looks different than the world
The world won’t understand you
We’re called to be different
God’s Message (vs 2)
John preached God’s message of repentance
Repent means to ‘radically change direction’
God’s message applies to everyone
No one is perfect / all need forgiveness
God’s message is heard by almost no one
It’s not comfortable
It’s not personal
God’s Ministry (vs 5)
John didn’t try and build a ministry – he was obedient
People have many ways to “build a church”
Ultimately, God builds His church
John did everything “wrong” (and yet people came)
Conclusion
We’re not called to blend in
We’re called to stand out and trust God with the results
