“John appeared, baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.” (Mark 1:4)
John the Baptist’s message is summed up with three key words. Sin. Repentance. Forgiveness.
These are timeless themes that are central from the beginning to the end of the Bible. But they are not easy concepts. John unhesitatingly confronts his hearers with them. Some then walk away, but many let John’s words sink in. Do you do the same? Are you willing to reflect on these issues?
The word “sin” has a negative connotation. Every human being is sinful. Actually, we know this quite well about ourselves, but it is not comfortable to be confronted with this fact. It is much easier to deal with more superficial topics. But when we ignore sin, we fool ourselves. We then fail to see our need of salvation, and we lose sight of how wonderful God’s offer of forgiveness is!
John warned the people insistently because Jesus was coming. In fact, his message has lost none of its urgency because the Lord Jesus will come to earth once again, this time to judge all people. It is of the utmost importance to be prepared for His coming! And this is only possible if we acknowledge our sins, repent and receive God’s forgiveness.