THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

Introduction:

A. How Would You React?

1. To the birth of a child in your old age?

2. To the birth for a relative?

B. They Greatly Rejoiced.

Body: Luke 1: 57 - 80

I. The Birth Occurs.

A. The "fullness of time."

B. Gives birth to a son - important to have son.

C. God has been merciful.

II. The Name.

A. Zacharias had been told by Gabriel.

B. He had informed Elizabeth of the name.

C. Bossy relatives won't listen.

D. The words are fulfilled - his tongue is loosed.

1. Immediately praises God.

2. Makes the local gossip.

3. Looking to the future.

III. Zacharias Prophecies.

A. God has "poured out of His spirit" (Acts 2: 18).

B. When God visits, He redeems.

C. Salvation has been raised up.

1. Saved from enemies.

2. Remembered His promise.

3. Provide service without fear.

D. John is to be a prophet.

E. He will go before the Lord.

F. The Light has come.

IV. Life of Seclusion.

Conclusion:

A. Are We Thankful to God?

1. What are the first words out of our mouth when we get up?

2. How often to we praise God publicly?

3. Do we glorify His name by the way we live?

B. How Dedicated Are We?