A Mission Worthy Of A Lifetime

When John the Baptist was born, his father Zacharias gave thanks to God for the miracle birth and then spoke a blessing over his son that contained the mission for his life. John’s purpose was to point people to the Messiah—to bring them the message of hope and salvation that Jesus was coming as the Lamb of God who would take away the sins of the world. John was faithful to that task, preaching the truth without fear or favor, and pointing many to the Saviour.

The life mission of John the Baptist should be our purpose as well. There is no more important task, because everyone we meet has an eternal soul and a need of salvation. There were many religious figures in John’s day who were proclaiming messages that were not true. John fearlessly pointed out the difference between right and wrong, despite the fact that many people wanted a message more accommodating to their lifestyle.

Jesus praised John the Baptist, in the highest terms, for his commitment to his calling. He said, “Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he” (Matthew 11:11). Neither John’s life nor ministry were long, but they were effective because he faithfully made Jesus known. Every Christian can and should follow the example of John in pointing others to Jesus.

Today’s Discipleship Principle: There is no more important mission we can undertake than pointing people to our Saviour.