July 16, 2014 High Honor

High Honor

Matthew 11:7-14 As John’s disciples were leaving, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 8 If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear fine clothes are in kings’ palaces. 9 Then what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 10 This is the one about whom it is written: ‘I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.’ 11 I tell you the truth: Among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. 12 From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it. 13 For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John. 14 And if you are willing to accept it, he is the Elijah who was to come.”

MALACHI spoke the last prophetic words to Israel before John was born. He said, “See, I will send you the prophet Elijah before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes.” (Malachi 4:5) Elijah had been taken to heaven in the Lord’s Chariots of Fire about 400 years before Malachi prophesied. “Would he come back?” Israel wondered.

     Jesus answered Israel’s question. “He is the Elijah who was to come.” John began God’s forceful move of the Kingdom of God on earth. The Spirit anointed him to greatness. He prophesied, baptized and preached repentance. He pointed to the Messiah. Then Jesus came.

     And then through Jesus, the Spirit anoints you to even a larger greatness as a Kingdom citizen forever.

LIFE Link: Feel honored.