BIBLE CHARACTERS

Lesson #11

 

John the Baptist

The Forerunner of Jesus

Matthew 3:1-15; 4:12; 9:14; 11:2-6, 7-15; 14:1-15; 16:14; 17:10-13; 21:25-26; 21:32;  Mark 1:1-8; 1:9; 1:14; 2:18; 6:14-29; 11:29-32; Luke 1:11-17; 1:57-63; 1:76-79; 1:80; 3:1-18; 3:19-20; 7:18-23; 7:24-28; 7:29-30; 7:31-35; 9:7-9; 9:18-20; Luke 11:1; 16:16; 20:3-7; John 1:6-8; 1:15; 1:19-28; 1:29-34; 3:23-24; 3:25-36: 5:33-35; 10:41; Acts 1:5; 1:22; 11:16; 18:25; 19:3-4

Victor M. Eskew

 

1.    What are some of the unique aspects of John’s parents that made him the man he came to be?

 

2.    The Bible says that John did no miracle (John 10:41).  What, therefore, made John’s message so genuine to the people?

 

3.    How does a person of John’s authority, popularity, and success maintain his humility?

 

4.    John’s preaching was filled with boldness.  What elements of character are needed to be a courageous spokesman for God?

 

5.    John’s message brought the wrath of Herodias upon him (Matt. 14:8).  What causes individuals to get so angry at the message and the messenger?

 

6.    Why didn’t the Pharisees and lawyers submit to the baptism of John? (Luke 7:29-30)

 

7.    When John was in prison, he sent his disciples to Jesus, and asked:  “Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?” (Matt. 11:3)  Was this doubt on John’s part?  If not, how would you describe his question?

 

8.    List five qualities of John the Baptist that we need to emulate.