8: John asked for a repentance evidenced by works. He knew well that these were expert at a pretended piety. He was warning them not to think that this was yet another feather for their cap. He would not baptize them unless their repentance was genuine. Those whom he baptized could make specific statements concerning the sins they had committed. The Pharisees and Sadducees would never do so.
9: These religious leaders believed that their perfect pedigree would guarantee their salvation, and thus gave them every right to partake of John’s baptism. John made it clear that pedigree alone was not enough. True repentance was required.
Personal Journal Entry #12111
Prayer Journal Entry #12111
Daily Bible Reading: 1 Kings 15:1-17:24
Praise Journal Entry #12071: Heavenly Father, thank You for not being a respecter of persons. Thank You for pleading the cause of the helpless. Thank You for upholding the just. Your justice and mercy are always right and good. Thank You for calling us to a true life, a genuine life. Truth makes things so much better. A life of lies is a burden to all. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.