I think I would have really liked John. He seems to be my kind of guy. Living in the wild, eating crazy things, telling it like it is. His office was outdoors and he did the majority of his work close to or actually in the river! Now that is "live action" ministry.
He also seemed to be put out by "posers". When a crowd gathers, there is always those who what to be considered among the true followers who are actually just there to be seen and recognized. They don't feel as though they have anything to confess, but they certainly want to hear the confession of others. They consider themselves "good", but their hearts are consumed with deceit. Self deceit is the worst kind.
It was this group that John boldly confronted. He knew that Jesus was coming and he was preparing the hearts of God's people to receive Him. Who is prepared? Anyone who recognizes that they are a sinner and in desperate need of a Savior. John himself knew of his own need.
Who are we today?
John's allegiance was to God, not merely the numerical verification of his ministry. Jesus and John had the habit of routinely winnowing their crowds by speaking truth. the thing i love about Cornerstone is that it has grown not by flattery but by faithfully preaching God's Words. i take comfort in seeing the nearly 2,500 people in knowing it is not a result of the pastors pandering to them. if they come, they hear about Jesus: wrath, glory, repentance, faith, grace: the whole counsel of God.
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