John the Baptist's ministry compared to Christian ministry today, a few points

Perhaps it's unfair to compare Christian ministry today with John's; but when you take a slow look at the Baptist's life the differences become uncomfortable. 

The Word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the wilderness

Most of us have never spent serious time in the wilderness, away from the opinions of men, so we can receive the Word of God

 John proclaimed a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins

 Our invitation is for people to come to Jesus just as they are

 John’s ministry was anchored in the Old Testament. Here God is an all-consuming holy fire.

 We say God’s plan is about our happiness.

 John cried out

 We speak politely and cautiously

 John was convinced that the Lord was coming

 We do not sound so convinced that the Lord in person is coming to judge and rule                                .

John urged people to change. 

We say very little about people having to radically change their lives. 

 When the crowds came, John said ‘You brood of vipers’

 We tell people that they are all wonderful, even awesome               

 John asked the people: Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

 We never talk about God’s wrath.

 John rebuked racial pride and the idea that God needed people

 We easily pander to people’s sense of importance.

 John said God’s judgement was at hand and if anyone’s life was not full of good fruit, that life would be burnt up

 We say nothing about judgement and eternal destruction.

When the crowd asked what they should do, John gave practical instructions – give to the poor, don’t cheat, don’t bully, be content with your wages.

 We explain to new converts how they can do things to make them feel happy.

 When John spoke about Jesus Christ, he was almost fearful.

 We tend to talk about Jesus as if He is an old school chum

For the third time John warned of the coming judgement, chaff will be burnt with ‘unquenchable fire’.

We remain determinedly silent about the coming judgement and hell.

John’s preaching is called ‘Good News’ by Luke

  We say we are also preaching ‘Good News’. But it’s very different.

John condemned Herod’s marriage to his brother’s wife

  We are strictly non-judgmental. It is our badge of honour.

John was arrested and later beheaded in prison

For challenging King Herod's sex life John was executed. Thankfully some Christians do speak up about sexual sin - and suffer. But they are probably a minority.

Jesus called John the greatest man born of woman.

 We, perhaps, should be a little nervous about what Jesus will call us.