Preparation for Jesus' Public Ministry
- by: Pastor Lincoln Loney
- Jun 7, 2009
- Series: The Book of Luke
I. Luke 1:1 – 2:52 The Introduction of John and Jesus:
The Infancy Narratives
II. Luke 3:1 – 4:13 Preparation for Jesus’ Public Ministry
As John’s birth prepared for Jesus’ birth, John’s
Ministry prepares the way for Jesus’ ministry.
A. John the Baptist: The One Who Goes Before - 3:1-20
- The ministry of John – 3:1-6
- The preaching of John – 3:7-14
- Preparing for salvation involves humble submission.
- The promise of John – 3:15-18
- Jesus is superior to John.
- The imprisonment of John – 3:19-20
B. Jesus: The More Powerful One Who Comes After - 3:21 – 4:13
- Jesus’ Baptism - 3:21-22
- Here is the first divine endorsement of Jesus as the beloved Son of God.
- Jesus’ Genealogy - 3:23-28
- In His connection to Adam, Jesus represents all mankind.
- Jesus’ Temptation - 4:1-13
- Jesus is unswerving in His allegiance to His Father, succeeding where Adam failed.
The Ministry of John – Luke 3:1-6
a. The Historical Setting – 3:1-2a
The list of seven rulers anticipates the historical impact that Jesus is about to make. It also raises the question: Just who is in charge here?
b. John preaches a baptism of repentance – 3:2b-3
The authority of God’s Word supersedes all worldly authority. John’s baptism looks forward to Jesus’ greater baptism.
c. John fulfills the promise of Isaiah – 3:4-6
God will supernaturally clear the way for a humble and repentant people to receive the salvation that Jesus brings.
