Matthew 3:1-9*

A. 1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, 2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

B. 3 For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

C. 4 And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey.

B’. 5 Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, 6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.

A’. 7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: 9 And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.

2 thoughts on “Matthew 3:1-9*”

  1. A. John’s Message: Repent
    B. Prophecy of Isaiah 40:3
    C. John’s Asceticism
    D. Israel’s Baptism by John
    E. Warning of Judgment
    F. Bear Good Fruit
    G. Physical Children
    G’ Spiritual Children
    F’ Bear Good Fruit
    E’ Warning of Judgment
    D’ Jesus’ Baptism by John
    C’ Jesus’ Asceticism & Testing
    B’ Prophecy of Isaiah 9:1-2
    A’ Jesus’ Message: Repent

    Matt. 3:1-4:17
    Outline adapted from J. Breck, “The Shape of Biblical Language,” page 125.

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