Scripture to Read: Luke 7:24–28a
After Jesus had performed all of the miracles, God had Luke record the following in Luke 7:24–27, “When the messengers of John had left, He began to speak to the crowds about John, ‘What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? 25 But what did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Those who are splendidly clothed and live in luxury are found in royal palaces! 26 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and one who is more than a prophet. 27 This is the one about whom it is written, ’Behold, I send My messenger ahead of You, who will prepare Your way before You.’” Jesus wanted the crowd to recognize who John the Baptist was. Jesus told them that John was chosen as a prophet of God and called to prepare the way for the Messiah. Jesus quoted in Luke 7:27 from Malachi 3:1. No other prophet in Scripture was ever prophesied about before they arrived, but John the Baptist was. No other prophet ever met the Messiah this side of heaven, but John the Baptist not only met Him but also baptized Him. Therefore, John was greater than all previous prophets. That is why Jesus said this in Luke 7:28a, “I say to you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John…” God miraculously used John to prepare the way for Christ. God now uses us to help others follow Christ as we do.
Challenge & Application
Why was John the Baptist considered greater than all of the other prophets before him?
How did God use John for His glory, and how is God using you today?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!