John the Babtist

This semester I am taking a class covering the New Testament mostly Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. So, each week I will be posting a blog about something we studied in class. Not only does this fulfill part of my lesson but I think it will be a good way to have gospel discussions and maybe share some of the gospel with people who don't know much or anything about Jesus Christ. I know most of the people that read my blog are LDS and know me well, but some are not and this could be a good way to share a simple spiritual message. I hope you enjoy my posts throughout the semester!

During the reign of King Herod there was a priest named Zacharias who was married to Elisabeth and they had never been able to have children. One day when Zacharias was working in the Temple and angel appeared to him. This angel proclaimed to Zacharias that his wife would bear a son and they were to name him John. A great blessing was then given to him about the child in which the angel declared that John would be highly favored by God even before he was born and should not drink strong drinks (wine) and that many would follow him. John would be filled with the Spirit of the Lord and have the power to bring people to repentance and remembrance of the Lord so that when the Lord came again he would have a people ready to accept Him. (Luke1:14)

John was a birth and life to be celebrated for he was given a special mission when he came to earth. Even before birth he knew his Lord and left in his mothers womb when Mary the mother of Jesus came to visit for he knew who she was and that she was the mother of Christ. Being directed so early by the influence and promptings of the Holy Ghost made him a ready disciple of Christ. He would teach those who had lost their way, heal the sick, and bring knowledge of salvation to all who would listen. This was significant because it was prophesied that John would come to prepare the way for Jesus Christ. His birth signified that Christ would soon be born which is why the people had cause to rejoice at this birth. (Luke 1:56-80)

We can learn even more of John by researching in the Bible Dictionary where there is a short account given of John the Baptists life and work. Having been born through "priestly" lineage and being taught by his parents and through the Spirit of the Holy Ghost John became the outstanding bearer of the Aaronic Priesthood meaning he exemplified and magnified his calling to the highest of standards. This he did to bring a people together that would be ready to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. His mission was significant and his work necessary to prepare for coming of Christ.

Below is a short One minute story of John the Baptists Birth.