Building off the call to repent and turn from sin that Hannah spoke of yesterday, John argues that the true life of repentance should be evident in different behavior and actions. This demonstrates that we are connected and in relationship with God.

The beginning of the year is a good time to evaluate whether our lives show that we are turning from sin and striving to live in obedience to the Father. Let’s resolve to take stock of our hearts and make choices to pursue the fruits of obedience and repentance.

Luke 3.7-14

7 He said therefore to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bear fruits in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children for Abraham. 9 Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”

10 And the crowds asked him, “What then shall we do?” 11 And he answered them, “Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.” 12 Tax collectors also came to be baptized and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” 13 And he said to them, “Collect no more than you are authorized to do.” 14 Soldiers also asked him, “And we, what shall we do?” And he said to them, “Do not extort money from anyone by threats or by false accusation, and be content with your wages.”

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ John’s baptism is a baptism of repentance. But John challenges those who think that this baptism alone can protect them from God’s wrath. What does he admonish them to do? [vs. 7-8]

+ What excuse, or justification, does John say will not protect the people from God’s wrath? What is the warning he gives them? [vs. 8-9]

+ The question the people ask John in verse 10 is important. It indicates that they understand that repentance must be marked by action. What actions does John suggest will demonstrate their repentance? What principles or similarities do you see in the different answers he gives to different people who ask? [vs. 10-14]

+ How is obedience in repentance important to our relationship with the Father?

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ What fruit is there in my life?

+ Where do I need to take action, turning from sin and living in obedience to the Lord in repentance?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?