Mark 1:1-8 “The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him . . . ” Mark 1:5 QUESTION: What did John the Baptist know about drawing a crowd in the wilderness? He Knew He Was From God. “ . . . I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way – a voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’” Mark 1:2-3 Read Isaiah 40:3 At VGBC – are we still convinced of: **God’s for our church? Read 2 Chronicles 7:14 Note: For a church to grow it must absolutely believe that it still has a . “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:21 **God’s in our church? Read Judges 16:18-20 He Knew He Was By God. “John wore clothing made of camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey.” (vs. 6) Note: We are called to be not better. “better” “different” emphasize . emphasize . ________ our struggles. . our struggles. promotes promotes . encourages encourages to for Jesus. to for Jesus. Lord, me. Lord, make me Note: Samson was only separated in Read Matthew 8:18-22 He Knew He Was A Of God. “And this was his message: ‘After me will come one more powerful than I, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.’” (vs. 7-8) Note: John the Baptist could only encourage someone but he knew Jesus could someone. “He must become greater; I must become less.” (John 3:30) Note: The most difficult time to be a servant is when we are treated like a . “Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men.” (Ephesians 6:7) CONCLUSION: **How many guests have you to visit this great church? **How many times have you to share your faith?