GROW Guide January 10, 2021
Meeting Jesus - Jesus’ baptism
Luke 3:1-22
Opening Question
Share about preparations you make before company arrives. What and who is involved? What do you do beyond the cleaning, etc?
Context
John, the son of Zechariah and Elizabeth, 2nd cousin of Jesus just months older, is out in the wilderness. He is a known prophet, baptizing the crowds who come to him. Jesus is now about 30 years old and entering his years of ministry.
Discussion Questions
What is John’s message to the people? How would you define “repentance”? How is repentance the way we prepare for Christ’s coming?
What people groups are identified and given instruction? What specifically are they told to do? What do you think John’s instructions would be to people today?
How did John make an enemy of Herod? What happened as a result? Calling out sin often gets a negative and even violent reaction. How do you see people identifying, responding to and reconciling sin in our culture today?
Jesus is baptized just like the others there at the scene, only his baptism includes a voice from heaven and a dove descending. What do you think is the importance of Jesus being baptized in this way? Even if no one else saw the dove or heard the voice, what does this “do” for Jesus as he prepares for ministry?
Take Home Questions
In reading verses 16-17, what chaff might need to be cleared in your own life to make way for God’s presence and activity? What steps can you take to begin this process? What will you ask God to help “winnow away”?