“Jesus Christ, the Son of God”  Mark 1:1-11

Introduction:  Note the parallel formulation to August Caesar, the Son of a God

The term gospel (Evangel) meant “joyful tidings” among the Romans.

Associated with festival days linked to the Emperor’s birthday, accession, military victories (North Korea’s Kims)

I.        The Herald

A.     (v2) From Malachi 3:1, “My messenger will prepare the way before me.”

1.      Malachi continues, “The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight, he is coming.”

2.      Malachi 3:2, “He is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap.”

B.     (v3) From Isaiah 40:3, “In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord.  Make straight his paths.”

1.      40:1, “Comfort my people…Cry that her iniquity is pardoned.”

2.      40:4, “Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill will be made low.”

3.      40:5, “The glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together.”

C.     (v4, v6) John’s ministry and peculiar attire

1.      John drew people into the wilderness and led them through the waters.  Moses?

2.      His attire resembled Elijah’s [2 Kings 1:8] who ministered in the wilderness.  [Malachi 4:4-5]

II.       The Coronation

A.     (v7, v8) A person greater than John will baptize with the Holy Spirit [Ezekiel 36:25-27]

1.      (v4) “John appeared, baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance.”

2.      Nature of John’s baptism as opposed to Jesus’ baptism

B.     (v10, v11) A dove and a voice—The coronation ceremony

1.      After his baptism, the spirit descended upon Jesus like a dove.

2.      (v11) “You are my beloved son; with you I am well pleased.”  [Isaiah 42:1]

Conclusion:   Communion and peace