John 1-3: A 12-Day Reading Plan Sample

John the Baptist is one of the most well-known personalities in Scripture. By any standards, his life was anything but ordinary. He was a prophet with a unique mission. His birth was announced by angelic proclamation and divine intervention (Luke 1:57-80), and his early years were lived in solitude in the wilderness (Luke 1:80). The focal point of his ministry was, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt. 3:2). 

John the Baptist wasn’t out to make a name for himself. John knew he was subordinate to Jesus. He repeatedly denied that he was the Christ and emphasized he was not the light but merely a witness to the light (1:8). John’s role and our role in the kingdom are crucial. God can use any means He chooses to draw people to Himself, but He often uses flesh and blood human beings to draw new believers to the kingdom of God. 

The gospel of Jesus Christ must be communicated for people to receive it. Certainly, God calls and equips preachers, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to communicate His Word (Eph. 4:11). But even those who aren’t called to full-time vocational ministry are called to share the gospel. When we encounter Jesus and experience His presence in our lives, the most natural response is to tell others. In Scripture, the most common reaction for people who have encountered Jesus is for them to share their experience. 

Who do you know who needs to hear the gospel? What can you tell them about Jesus?