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Matthew 3:1-3
As we begin chapter 3 of the Gospel of Matthew we must realize that some time has passed from the ending of chapter 2 to the beginning of chapter 3. We know from Luke 1:36 that John the Baptist is 6 months older than Jesus and now, at the beginning of Matthew 3, John the Baptist has grown to an age of what we perceive to be adulthood. His message is simple and is stated in Matthew 3:2 (NKJV), “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” He too was prophesied of in the Old Testament Scriptures of Isaiah 40:3 as is quoted by Matthew in Matthew 3:3.
This is the command given by John the Baptist in Matthew 3:2 to, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!”
It is believed that the Gospel of Matthew was written primarily to the Jewish community to help them realize the fulfillment of the Old Testament Scriptures in Christ Jesus. Matthew refers to the things spoken of by the prophets as the Jewish community would be aware of them. The message of John the Baptist is to all who would receive Him (Jesus) as is stated in John (the Apostle’s Gospel) of John 1:10-13. This message is extended to us today – to all who will receive Him and put our faith in Him as the Apostle Paul declares in Romans 10:9-10 (HCSB), “If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. One believes with the heart, resulting in righteousness, and one confesses with the mouth, resulting in salvation.”
Dear LORD,
You sent John the Baptist to, “Prepare the way of the LORD;” as is stated in Isaiah 40:3. You have called Your preachers today to declare the same message – in Christ Jesus our Lord and Savior. Please give us the strength and wisdom to confidently declare Jesus to all the world! In Jesus name I pray, amen.