Who are You?

While a driver’s license verifies our legal identity, it cannot reveal our true character. In the message today, the question "Who are you?" will be explored through the life of John the Baptist. Confronted by a group sent by the Pharisees demanding that he answer: “Who are You?” John defines his identity not by his personal authority, but through his confession (witness), his work, and his worship.

In our passage, John demonstrates his witness by confessing exactly who he is not. He rejects opportunities for pride in his life, denies that he is the Messiah, Elijah, or even the promised Prophet. Instead, he identifies himself as a "voice" prophesied by Isaiah, laboring outside the legalism of the religions of that day and seeking to clear a straight path for the Lord.

Second, John’s work reveals his identity. Challenged by the Pharisees regarding his authority to baptize, John deflects attention from himself. Though he was Jesus’ earthly cousin, he claims no special privilege, declaring himself unworthy of even a slave’s task—untying the Messiah’s sandals. His water baptism merely prepares hearts for the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.

Finally, John’s life is defined by how he worships and where he directs others. Spotting Jesus, he says: "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!"

John The Baptist answered the question about who he was, by his witness, work and worship. By seeking to lead others to Christ. In like manner, our own witness, work, and worship reveal exactly who we are and to whom we belong.