Christmas Stories: John the Baptist

Tanner Heath   -   August 13, 2020

What is an important Christmas tradition or story for you and your family?

• Try to get everyone involved in the conversation.

Reflect on and recount the life of John the Baptist.

• Scriptures for reference: Luke 1:14-17, Matthew 3:1-6; 3:11-12, John 3:26-30

• Main Idea – The Greatest Gift Came at the Highest Cost.

How is John the Baptist central in the storyline of Jesus?

• Ex. He prepared the way for Jesus by proclaiming a baptism of Jesus. John’s witness recognizes the importance of Jesus Christ.

Talk through the main points of the sermon, which of these do you find to be the easiest to do and the hardest? Why?

1. John gave his identity to Jesus

2. John gave his livelihood for Jesus

3. John gave his reputation for Jesus

4. John gave his life for Jesus

Has there been a time in your life when Jesus asked you to risk something for something greater?

• Maybe you are still waiting for the greater, and that’s ok.

How do we model a life where Jesus increases and we decrease?

• John 3:26-30, “26They came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan—the one you testified about—look, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him.”  To this John replied, “A person can receive only what is given them from heaven. 28 You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Messiah but am sent ahead of him.’ 29 The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom’s voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete. 30 He must become greater; I must become less.”