Jon preached from Matthew 3 on repentance. He told the story of the lionfish that is beautiful, quiet, seems harmless, but is actually extremely poisonous, spreads quickly and has no true predator. The lionfish is taking over the Atlantic ocean even though there have been many efforts to contain them. Finally, Florida told their people that they have to kill them to control their growth.
We bring sin in just like this. It can feel good, seem harmless and look good but before you know it turn into an addiction.
There is no predator for sin. It will continue to grow and unlike the lionfish, humans cannot destroy sin.
Only when judgement comes will sin be destroyed.
Jon discussed how we cannot hide in the church from sin. The church is not a safe place from sin. It should however be a place where everyone can come and everyone can flourish.
In verses 1-6, John the Baptist comes from the wilderness with the wardrobe and diet of a prophet telling the people to REPENT!
Judgement and repentance are hard topics. However, if we are going to be a church and community that follows Christ, we are going to follow the bible.
In verses 7-12 the Pharisees are called a "brood of vipers." In today's world, we see the people with the signs stating "God Hates XXXX" while screaming about God's judgement. This is not what the text states. He is calling us out. We need to stop worrying about others and look at ourselves. The Pharisees were always condemning others and John was telling them to look within. Don't think because you attend the right church and know the right things to say that you are in. Many will be turned away. We do need to know that God is good and will make things right and be just. Judgement will come but only Jesus can be that judge.
Verses 13-17 assure us that there is good news. "This is my beloved Son with whom I am well-pleased." More to come on this next week.
Jon challenged us to ask God where He is calling us each to repent. Where are you hiding in your religion? Jon also recommended the book The Skeletons in God's Closet by Joshua Ryan Butler if you want to dig deeper on judgement and repentance.
