Matthew 3:1-12: The Wilderness Voice We Still Need

I) Who Is John the Baptist?
A) He was a ____________ of Jesus, born miraculously to Zechariah and Elizabeth.

B) He lived a __________, prophetic life in the wilderness.

C) He drew large ____________ from Jerusalem and all Judea.


II) What Role Did John Play?
A) John was the promised ____________-like prophet (Malachi 4:5).

B) He was sent to __________ the way for the Lord (Isaiah 40:3).

C) He boldly confronted the religious leaders and exposed their empty religion.


III) What Was John’s Message?
A) God’s ____________ is coming!
1) The Messiah will give the ________ __________ to believers.

2) The Messiah will also bring _____________ and separate the genuine from the false.

B) _____________ and believe—for the kingdom of heaven is near.
1) ________________: Admitting sin honestly and feeling its spiritual weight.
When was the last time I honestly confessed a sin to God—not just acknowledged it, but felt its weight?



2) ________________ God: Recognizing we cannot earn salvation; it is God’s work from start to finish.
How do I subtly try to earn God’s approval instead of resting in the finished work of Jesus?
3) Bearing _________: Demonstrating real change in how we live, reflecting Christlike character.
What fruit of repentance is most evident in my life right now? What fruit is lacking?




C) What repentance is not:
1) Merely feeling ___________ about the consequences of sinful actions.
What helps me move from regret to genuine repentance?



2) Self-_________________ or wallowing in guilt—repentance turns toward God, not away from Him.
How do I beat myself up over failure instead of turning to God for forgiveness and restoration?



IV) Our Response:
A) ____________ in the Lord Jesus—the greater One John pointed to.

B) Cultivate a heart of repentance.
1) Be quick to self-_________________.
What sins or things in my life do I need to name, face, and address?




2) _____________ embrace Christ’s grace.
What causes me to doubt God’s love for me?