Jesus: Our New and True Hope

In John the Baptist’s day Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate, Herod Antipas, underlings of Rome Philip the Tetrarch and Lysanias, seemed to hold political power in their hands. The priestly dynasty of Annas seemed to hold spiritual power over temple and worship in Jerusalem. However, history proves the influence of these leaders was limited, each was overcome by death, and their worthiness questionable. Luke, our historian, situates the Baptist’s ministry in the days of these leaders (Luke 3.1-2). His point is that there is only One True King. One Omnipotent, sovereign, worthy one, who was now reaching out to the world through the word of his prophet ‘the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness’ (Luke 3.2). May we respond to his word by bearing fruit from changed hearts. May we be prepared for his coming.

 

Reflection Questions 

Read Luke chapter 3

1. The Baptist’s ministry begins in the 15th year of Tiberius’ rule (Lk 3.1). That is, when  calculated from his co-regency with Augustus (11/12AD). Tiberius will be dead by 37AD, just a few years into the future.Tiberius’ reign is said to have ended in wasteful living on the island of Capri. Not a very worthy leader.

Pilate is mentioned in v1 too. He will become infamous, of course, for his role in the crucifixion of the Christ. But he too will slink off the stage of human history soon after. A complaint was made against him to Tiberius, and upon the latter’s death Pilate seems to have simply disappeared. 

Herod Antipas (Luke 3.1) was caught up in great political power play within his own family. He was deposed in 39AD & banished to the foothills of the Pyrenees. 

The other two administrators mentioned- Herod Philip and Lysanius- had insignificant impact on the course of history. 

(Reference: Garland’s ‘Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament’ 2012, Zondervan).

Are the facts about these worldly leaders generally known? Discuss. 

Are the facts about John the Baptist’s ministry generally known? Discuss. 

Who had a larger impact and why? John the Baptist or these worldly leaders? 

2. Reread Luke 3.7-14. How would you describe the difference between emotional sorrow at sin, and true repentance, according to the Baptist?

3. What is so remarkable about the Baptist’s claim that family heritage does not qualify one to be a member of the household of God? (Luke 3.7-9). 

4. Reread Luke 3.15-18. How does the Baptist compare to the One that is coming? What contrasts does he draw? 

5. As we prepare our hearts and lives to meet God in Christ, reread Luke 3.7-14 with the following questions in mind:

What power do I have in my family, community or workplace? 

How can I demonstrate repentance by using that power to serve?