New Testament Class

I am currently taking a class on the New Testament for my studies through BYU-Idaho. I'm loving the class so far, and have enjoyed getting to know the Savior better as I simultaneously read the four gospels. As part of our weekly assignments we do some in depth research on a topic, and then choose a way to present the material. I've been writing a series of talks for all the previous weeks, but thought I would change it up a little this week and share with you my work as a blog post. Enjoy!

In Matthew 11:2-3 it discussed when John the baptist was in prison and sent some of his disciples to speak with Christ, to reassure their faith. Some have said that John might have been doubting if Jesus was the Savior, but I think it is very clear that John wanted his disciples to go to Christ because their faith was wavering. John was imprisoned, and new that if anyone could restore their faith or help them on their way, it was Jesus.

In Matthew 11:11 and Luke 7:28, Jesus expounds upon the virtue of John the Baptist. The Prophet Joseph Smith also gave three reasons why John was one of the greatest prophets to have ever lived. The are:

1. John was given the divine role of preparing the way for the Savior.

2. John was the one who baptized the Savior

3. John was the only man who held the priesthood keys born onto the earth.

In John 3:30, it reads, "He must increase, and I must decrease." This was John the Baptist speaking of himself and Jesus Christ. John new that any fame or glory authority that he had as the prophet up until Christ coming was made small by the Savior and his glory and works. He knew that the Saviors works would make him seem smaller, but he was humble enough to accept that, and wise enough to know that it was God’s plan, and was for the good of all mankind. We should apply a similar attitude in our own lives as we teach of the Savior. We should not take any credit for the conversion of man as we share the gospel, because it is not about making ourselves look good or better, it is about glorifying the savior. 

I've loved reading about the amazing man that John the Baptist was. I've always known that he was a prophet and that he baptized the Savior, but I did not fully comprehend the importance of his role in preparing the way for the Savior's ministry. I have really loved reading the Savior's words about John, and getting to know him better through Jesus' eyes.