Words Have Meaning

5 Key Scriptures

In my previous post I showed all four Gospel writers reported John the Baptist’s words of being baptized (with water) but that you would be baptized with the Holy Spirit. Also I included Jesus’ words just prior to His ascension in Acts 1:4b-5 affirming the same testimony.

Without imposing Theological interpretation or application to these five (5) passages of scripture it is always helpful to understand the similarities and differences. Study the comparative chart below while keeping an eye upon who the audience is to help shape understanding of some unique differences.

Similarities & Differences	Matthew 3:11	Mark 1:8	Luke 3:16	John 1:33	Acts 1:4b-5
Baptize With Water	X	X	X	X	X
Baptize with Water for Repentance	X
John baptized with water					X
Baptize with The Holy Spirit	X	X	X	X	X
Baptize with Holy Spirit & Fire	X		X
See the Spirit descend & remain				X

Who was the audience the author intended to reach?

Matthew – The Jews who were looking for a Royal Savior

Mark – The Romans who were more interested in power and strength

Luke – Theophilus – Gentiles who were the common people looking for Christ’s help

John – A general audience, more evangelistic in nature intended on a larger audience

Acts – Theophilus – a larger general population reporting a historical account

Take your study deeper. What are your observations? What have you learned without making a Theological interpretation or application?