The previous article identifies the different audiences that three Synoptic Gospels, Matthew, Mark, and Luke addresses in foretelling the preparation for Christ by John the Baptist. The three Gospels, however, quote Isaiah 40:3 to indicate John the Baptist as the voice in the wilderness who prepares the way for Jesus. The noun voice in the Greek lexicon translates to φωνή. The Thayer’s Greek Lexicon provides three definitions to voice: 1) a sound, a tone – a) of inanimate things, as musical instruments, 2) a voice – a) of the sound of uttered words, 3) speech – a) of language, tongue. In context of the Isaiah 40:3, voice means a voice – of the sound of uttered words. Therefore, John the Baptist utters the Words of God proclaiming the true nature of God through his son. In addition of John the Baptist preparing the way for Christ and thereby fulfilling Old Testament prophecy, all Gospels identify John’s message of repentance. However, Mark and Luke provide more information to the message of repentance by declaring baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Even though, Matthew does not specify this message with these exact words, he still indicates that John’s message prompts repentance and baptism. Therefore, the Synoptic Gospels indicate that John’s preparation of Christ began with his utterance of the Words of God that not only proclaim Christ, but calls those who hear to a repentant lifestyle. This lifestyle reflects restoration to God’s kingdom.
Continue Reading: The Preparation Pt. III
