John the Baptist

Product Summary

Main Characters:

John the Baptist and his parents, Elizabeth and Zacharias; Jesus; King Herod and his wife, Herodias

Luke 1:5-80, John 1:15-51, Matthew 3:1-6 & 14:3-10

Overall Theme:

John the Baptist, born to an elderly couple in answer to their prayers and a promise from God, grows up to be a prophet, preaching of the coming of the messiah. He fulfills Biblical prophecy by recognizing Jesus as the promised Savior and baptizing Him going before the Lord.

Summary:

The story of John the Baptist begins as Elizabeth, a virtuous older woman who longs for a child, delights in watching a young boy playing outside her window. Her husband Zacharias, chosen to offer incense to God at the temple, is visited there by the Angel Gabriel who tells him that his wife is to bear a son.  Because of his disbelief, Zacharias suddenly falls deaf and mute, unable to tell his family and neighbors what happened to him.

When Elizabeth’s son is born, family members ask his name and she answers “ John.“  They refuse to accept this since none among them share it. The family then asks Zacharias his son’s name.  He writes “John” on a tablet and his hearing and speech are restored.  He shares with them prophecy of the role his son is to play.

John grows up to be strong in both body and spirit, living a humble life on the banks of the River Jordan. He preaches of the imminent coming of a savior, and baptizes people in the river in the name of the messiah, preparing the way for Jesus.

All of this proves disturbing to the Pharisees and their leader, Caiaphas, who tries to convince King  Herod to capture John. The King is reluctant but not his wife, Herodias.

Even when Pharisee spies question John as he preaches of the repentance, he does not temper his word, calling Herod a sinner for taking his brother’s wife. This accusation drives Herodias to demand John’s capture and death.  Before this happens, Jesus  approaches the place where John is preaching.  John cries out, recognizing the savior about whom he has been preaching. Jesus asks John to Baptize him and as he does, the heavens open and the Holy Spirit appears in the form of a dove. Even though his life is in danger from Herodias and Herod, John refuses to flee, declaring that his work is done.

Background:

John the Baptist  baptized people to change their lives- that they be born anew – in preparation for the coming of a savior to earth. His baptism of the savior , Jesus  culminated his mission.