The Promise of the Messiah and John the Baptizer
Luke 1:5-24; 1:57-66; John 1:19-34
This week our children are learning about the promise of the Messiah and John the Baptist. Both Jesus and John the Baptist’s births were foretold in the Old Testament. In Isaiah and Malachi, there are passages about a forerunner to the promised messiah. These passages talk about someone who will prepare the way for the Lord when he comes to his people. It is said that the one who would come before the Lord would be like Elijah. When Gabriel meets Zechariah, John’s father, in the temple he says that Zechariah and Elizabeth’s son will be one in the spirit of Elijah and that he will prepare the people for the Lord. John fulfills this role in his own ministry. He goes on to preach a message of repentance and that the kingdom of God is at hand. Below are some questions and themes to help you with your Bible discussions this week.
- Did Zechariah believe the angel Gabriel when he told him he would have a son? No. Even though Zechariah was a priest and knew that God kept his promises, and even though he was standing in the temple speaking with an angel sent from God, he did not believe it. For his disbelief and to serve as a sign, Zechariah was not able to speak until John had been born.
- What was unique about John? John the Baptist was known as a wild man. He wore scratchy animal skins and ate bugs in the desert. He preached outside the city and was very critical of the religious leaders in Jerusalem. Even though he was very different, large crowds gathered in the desert to hear him and many people believed his message. More importantly, he pointed many to Jesus who was the true savior.
- What was John’s message as he preached? He preached asking people to repent and to return to God. He promised that God was sending another messenger who would be greater and bring true salvation.
Character trait: Patience
I can wait without getting mad and can take my time to finish a task.
Memory Verse:
You also be patient. Establish your hearts for the coming of the Lord is at hand.
James 5:8
