Is Jesus the real deal?
1. Are You the One? Why John's doubts (a) John's expectation - maybe bringing wrath on ungodly. (b) The Messiah would bring freedom - so why is John in prison. (c) The leaders are not recognising Jesus. Don't write John off (Note: Jesus' commendation).
How do we handle our doubt? John takes it to Jesus. Unresolved our doubts can grow. The Bible is His revelation and is trustworthy.
2. The Word and the work give the answer. Jesus links His miracles etc with the Isaiah prophecy. The evidence is clear. John's doubts are like our doubts. Jesus so far has been showing mercy rather than judgement (the judgement will come). Now is the day of grace and salvation.
3. Following the One. Two groups (a) This generation: the leaders were fixed in their view, and did not consider or tolerate something different (v30). (b) Wisdom's children. (v29,35) They saw in Jesus the Messiah
4. People today. Often make up their own image of God. But nothing like the true God revealed in Jesus.
