Matthew 3
Repentance, Conviction, and the Power of Presence: Reflections on Matthew 3
In the opening chapters of Matthew, we encounter John the Baptist—a figure both radical and resolute. His call to repentance stands as one of the most compelling elements in the New Testament. But what made John so effective? Was it his message or his method? Was it his unique lifestyle that drew crowds, or was it the deep conviction behind his words?
The Boldness of John the Baptist's Message
John the Baptist was no ordinary preacher. His appearance alone—clad in sackcloth and eating locusts—was enough to grab attention. People from the local towns were drawn not just by curiosity, but by the power of his message and his unwavering conviction. John was not one to shy away from speaking truth to power, whether it was calling out the religious leaders of his day or confronting the sin of King Herod. His message was clear: repentance was necessary, and change was demanded.
What stands out to me, especially when looking at John’s approach, is his ability to confront both religious hypocrisy and secular corruption. As we see in his rebuke of Herod and the Pharisees, he didn’t spare anyone from the call for repentance. In the same way, we too are called to evaluate our own hearts, to confront what needs to change both within our church communities and the broader society around us. John’s example is a powerful reminder of the importance of living out our convictions, no matter the cost.
Living Before We Do: The Example of Jesus’ Baptism
In the same chapter, we also encounter the baptism of Jesus—an event that marks a pivotal moment in the Gospels. Jesus, the Son of God, who had no need for repentance, still chose to undergo this symbolic act. As He rose from the water, the heavens opened, and the Holy Spirit descended like a dove. In that moment, the Father’s voice affirmed His identity: “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”
Jesus' baptism is not just a story about a divine endorsement; it’s also a lesson in how we are to live. We can’t help but notice that after this moment of divine affirmation, Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness. This sequence holds a deep truth: before we do, we must first be. Before Jesus performed any miracles or preached the Gospel, He was filled with the Spirit. He spent time in communion with the Father, and it was from this place of intimacy that His ministry flowed.
Positioning Ourselves for Transformation
John's boldness in speaking out and Jesus' dependence on the Holy Spirit both point to an important lesson for us: we cannot pour out what we have not first received. We need to position ourselves in such a way that we are filled with the Spirit before stepping out to act. This applies not only to ministry or public acts of service but to everyday life. Whether it's showing love to our children, caring for our neighbors, or confronting injustice, it is our time spent in the presence of God that equips us to truly live out the calling He has placed on our lives.
As we begin this new year, may we remember the importance of being before doing. Just like Jesus, who was filled with the Spirit before embarking on His mission, we too need to first be filled with the presence of God. And just like John, we must be bold in calling for repentance, not only in our own hearts but in the world around us.
Conclusion: A Call to Boldness and Presence
The example of John the Baptist and the baptism of Jesus serves as a reminder to live with conviction and to rely on God’s presence before taking action. Our call to repentance isn’t just a personal one—it’s a call for transformation within the world. As we step into the year ahead, let us seek the face of God first, positioning ourselves in His presence, so that we may boldly live out the convictions He places on our hearts.
