Matthew, 3
2. 'Repent, for the kingdom of Heaven is close at hand.'
2. 'Repent, for the kingdom of Heaven is close at hand.'
St. Matthew 3 presents the figure of John the Baptist, who came to prepare the way for the coming of Jesus Christ. The chapter describes his ministry in the desert, where he preached repentance and baptism for the remission of sins. John the Baptist is an example of humility and devotion to God, who called the people to repentance and faith. The following verses deal with topics related to this message of repentance and preparation for the arrival of Jesus:
Isaiah 40:3: "Voice of what cries out in the desert: Prepare the way of the Lord; straighten in the wilderness to our God." This verse is quoted in St. Matthew 3:3, when John the Baptist begins to preach in the desert. Isaiah's prophecy announces the arrival of a messenger who would prepare the way for the Lord. John the Baptist fulfills this prophecy in announcing the coming of Jesus Christ.
Ezekiel 18:30: "Therefore, I will judge you, to each one according to His ways, O house of Israel, say the Lord God. stumbling. " This verse highlights the importance of repentance and life change. John the Baptist preached the same message of conversion and repentance, calling the people to turn to God and abandon their sins.
Jeremiah 7:3-4: "Thus saith the Lord of hosts, God of Israel: Amend your ways and your works, and I will make you dwell in this place. You do not trust false words, saying, Temple of the Lord, Temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord is this. " This verse warns the people against empty trust in religion, remembering that God seeks a real change of heart and attitude. John the Baptist preached the same message, calling people to actually repent and to bear fruit in good works.
Matthew 3:8: "I produced fruits worthy of repentance." In this verse, John the Baptist urges the people to produce fruits that show sincere repentance. He was not content with empty religious words or ceremonies, but sought a real change of life in people's hearts.
Luke 3:16: "He [Jesus] shall baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire." This verse refers to Jesus' promise to send the Holy Spirit, who would baptize believers in his name. John the Baptist, in preparing the way to Jesus, anticipated this promise and announced that baptism with the Holy Spirit would be one of the marks of the coming of the Messiah.
“O grau sublime da humildade é não só reconhecer a abnegação, mas amá-la.” São Padre Pio de Pietrelcina