Luke is a doctor…he is writing from a research perspective. He is also penning the chronological order of events of the life of Jesus. A central character of Luke is the Holy Spirit.
John the Baptist is a cousin of Jesus. He was the forerunner…the one who guided people's attention to the One who was to come.
He stated in Luke 3:16, "I baptize with water, but someone is coming soon who is greater then I am--so much greater that I am not worthy to be his slave. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire."
Key idea: Our relationship with God is more important than what we do for God.
Before Jesus ever did one miracle, ever did one healing or ever spoke one word in a public setting… He was affirmed by His Father in Heaven: "You are my beloved son and I am fully pleased with you" (Luke 3:22).
The idea: He cares more about who we are (his kids, sons and daughters whom He loves) than what we do for Him. Our security as believers stems from His love and unconditional acceptance of who we are through His Son. Serving others flows out of knowing we are loved, accepted, and forgiven by God. We serve not to gain favor but because we have His favor upon our lives.
Many believers live a stressful Christian life. The stress come from attempting to work to somehow gain God’s favor.
God’s favor is a gift given freely through His Son.
When we receive the gift of salvation – we become God’s kids – we become favored.
Now we can express our gratitude by thanking and serving God through Jesus Christ.
Steve Bowen
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Devotionals
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