Luke 3:15 “Now as the people were in expectation, and all reasoned in their hearts about John, whether he was the Christ or not,”    The Jews live still in expectation today. However, the atmosphere in the land of Israel at this time had a heightened awareness of need in it. John’s ministry itself had…

Luke 3:14 “Likewise the soldiers asked him, saying, “And what shall we do?” So he said to them, “Do not intimidate anyone or accuse falsely, and be content with your wages.”    It was much easier of a life for a soldier if they threw their weight around. They could take advantage of many persons…

Luke 3:13 “And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you.”    As a result they would have to be content with the wages they received of the Romans for their work. This would represent quite a sacrifice for many of them as they profited quite a bit by increasing…

Luke 3:12 “Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do?”    Here we see that a special class of people come to John. These were those among the Jews who were in the service of the Roman Empire. These in particular were the tax collectors. They would…

Luke 3:11 “He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.”    We see a theme of taking care of those in need throughout Scripture. This was not a new teaching to the Jews. But, they…

Luke 3:10 “And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?”    Why would John answer them with rules? Why would he give them more good works to do? Why would he seem to encourage the idea of salvation through personal goodness? Wouldn’t Jesus teach against works? No, Jesus helped us to understand…

Luke 3:9 “And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.”    This is consistent with the teaching we see by Christ and the apostles. Though the age of grace was being ushered in,…

Luke 3:8 “Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.”    For every religious group there is one very central truth that is absolutely vital.…

Luke 3:7 “Then he said to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come?”    John’s target here was the Jewish religious elite who had come for baptism only as a show. John’s message had become very popular, and they…

Luke 3:6 “And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.”    Jesus is that salvation.The Lord will not stop until all this world has heard the gospel. His mercy is great. He gives ample time for repentance. But not forever. We can thank Him for making His truth available to us. Heavenly Father, what…