Matthew 3 study – This chapter was a shorter one, but still packed full of wisd…

Matthew 3 study 🌿
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This chapter was a shorter one, but still packed full of wisdom.
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John the Baptist came before Jesus with an important purpose: to prepare the hearts of Israel for the coming of the Messiah & to bring awareness of sin. “Great work of God begins with great preparation.“ John the Baptist was patterned after the bold Elijah — both were motivated by the Spirit of God & spurred widespread revival movements.
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Repent is the first word of the gospel. “And saying, “Repent, because the kingdom of heaven has come near!”” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭3:2‬ 🌿 The first word of John the Baptist’s gospel (Matthew 3:1-2). The first word of Jesus’ gospel (Matthew 4:14 & Mark 1:14-15). The first word in the preaching ministry of the twelve disciples (Mark 6:12). The first word in the preaching instructions Jesus gave to His disciples after His resurrection (Luke 24:46-47). The first word in the mouth of the Apostle Paul through His ministry (Acts 26:19-20). Such a resounding message throughout the gospel. So fitting, being that it is also one of the first steps in coming to Christ.
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According to @spurgeonbooks , “No mere pruning and trimming work did John come to do; he was the handler of a sharp axe that was to fell every worthless tree.” John called out the Pharisees and Sadducees for their facade of looking forward to the Messiah when there was no true repentance. “The ax is already at the root of the trees. Therefore, every tree that doesn’t produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭3:10‬ We can only bear fruits that are consistent with the state of our hearts. A heart that hasn’t repented can’t produce fruit of a repented heart.
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I also really loved this quote from @enduringwordcommentary ,“Repent isn’t a “feelings” word, it’s an action word.” Repentance describes what coming to God is like. That is so incredibly beautiful & freeing.
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continued in comments! 🌿