John the Baptist Karen Devine 2008 Scriptural References

John the Baptist © Karen Devine 2008

Scriptural References to Jesus’ Baptism a) b) c) d) Jesus was baptised in the River Jordan by John the Baptist. This is evidenced in the following scriptural references: Matthew: 3: 13 -17 Mark: 1: 9 -11 Luke: 3: 21 -22 Acts: 1: 21 -22

Why did Jesus need to be baptised? § The writings of the historian Josephus also comment on the event of Jesus’ baptism. § Jesus’ baptism is considered to be historic fact and raises a complex issue for the Christian church- “Why did Jesus need to be baptised? ”

John Points to Jesus as Messiah § John is an apocalyptic preacher. § John’s God is an angry judge. Jesus’ God is a loving father. § The way it is written is to set up an “old” Judaism versus a “new” Christianity. § Yet, Jesus accepted the teachings of John. His teachings focused on: a) Righteousness b) Repentance c) Salvation d) Confession of sin e) Obedience to the law f) Personal responsibility.

An Eschatological Prophet § John was an eschatological prophet. § Yet, there are no records of his prophecies outside the gospels. § Although there is much evidence of his existence and his acts.

John’s Prophecies a) b) c) d) e) John prophesied: impending judgment the nearness of the end of the world the ruthlessness of God the revelation of the Kingdom of God Jerusalem would become free of Roman rule.

John’s Death Herod Antipas, the Tetrarch, did not like John’s criticisms of his marriage to his half brother’s ex-wife. He had John imprisoned and eventually beheaded.

Question Time? What effect did a belief in the imminent end of the world have on the first century Christians?