Worldwide Christmas December 8, 2025 Devotional

MATTHEW 3:1-2| ¹In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, ² “Repent, for the     kingdom of heaven has come near.”

MATTHEW 4:17 | ¹⁷ From that time Jesus began to proclaim, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”

How many similarities can you find between Jesus and John the Baptist? Read the assigned verses and sample the descriptions of John in Luke as well as Matthew. Then take a look at my list below.

John and Jesus both:

• had the same sermon, calling for repentance
• insisted that the Kingdom was arriving and drew followers
• attracted crowds
• were social radicals (see John or Jesus on generosity)
• exhibited humility (John pointed to Jesus, who came to serve and not to be served)
• spoke the truth to power (Jesus called the leaders "blind guides and whitewashed tombs," John called them "snakes")
• generated opposition
• were executed

Who in your life are you most similar to? What traits do you share?

Is there anyone you would like to be like? What traits do you admire?

Gracious God,

Help us pick worthy models to imitate and admire.

Amen.