Then John gave this testimony: “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. And I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ I have seen and I testify that this is God’s Chosen One.”

Matthew 3-4, Mark 1, Luke 3-4, and John 1

Then John gave this testimony: “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. And I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ I have seen and I testify that this is God’s Chosen One.” John 1:32-34

Day 293 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues as my commentary* moves further into the New Testament - focusing this morning on John the Baptist's ministry, including the baptism of Jesus. The commentary notes the intrigue regarding how "sophisticated city people would go out of their way [from Jerusalem] to be taught by a rough man of the wilderness whose preaching is unusually harsh and demanding." Those who come to John are referred to as "vipers" and called out for their sin and warned of damnation. Today's reading also focuses on Jesus' temptation in the wilderness and how Satan found Jesus at His most vulnerable - after 40 days and nights of fasting - and how Jesus stood on scripture to defend against temptation. 

*Smith, F. LaGard. The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®). Harvest House Publishers. Kindle Edition

While there are several aspects of this morning's reading where one can focus, I am struck by John's clarity regarding who Jesus is - John is unequivocal that Jesus is the Messiah.  His testimony to the Jewish leaders reflects his confidence in Jesus.

I am reminded how all believers must have confidence in who Jesus is, including who He is in each of our lives as personal Lord and Savior..  Both Peter and John stood with confidence before the Sanhedrin:

Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, “Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:18-20

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You ARE my personal Lord and Savior.  I know this and I have confidence in this.  I have personally witnessed the heart and life transformation in my own life and in the lives of those around me.  I am grateful Jesus!  Yet I am not deserving.  I know I have sin in my life, including worry, etc.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.