The desert of Judea is harsh and bleak. The people who created the famous Dead Sea Scrolls lived in a part of this desert, near the coast of the Dead Sea. The blunt prophet John, Jesus’ forerunner, came from this rugged land. He heralded the Messiah’s nearness, and because he baptized those who repented, he became known as John the Baptist.

• In verse 2, the phrase “Change your hearts and lives” translates the single Greek word metanoietei. It’s often translated just “repent,” but the Translator’s Handbook on the Gospel of Matthew noted that the word “does not mean simply ‘to be sorry about’ or ‘to regret,’ but rather involves a change of both attitude (or heart) and of conduct.” In what ways has a change of attitude or heart showed itself in changed conduct in your life?
• In verses 9-10, John challenged those who thought their ethnic or religious heritage alone could make them close to God. Have you ever known (or been) someone who hoped that family tradition or church affiliation could take the place of a living, life-changing personal connection with God? Do religious as well as non-religious people need to hear and heed John’s call to repent?