Saint John The Forerunner

Saint John The Forerunner

Mt 11:11-15 11:11 “I tell you the truth,18 among those born of women, no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist. Yet the one who is least19 in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he is. 11:12 From20 the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and forceful people lay hold of it.21 11:13 For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John appeared.22 11:14 And if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah, who is to come. 11:15 The one who has ears had better listen!

Pay particular attention to v14

For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John appeared.22 11:14 And if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah, who is to come.

This fulfills the prophecies concering the Jewish Messiah which state that Elijah must return before the Messiah. Jesus identifies John as Elijah. For those who demand that the Bible be taken strictly literally this verse indicates that such an approach is in error.

Also notice where this comes from. Malachi 4:5-6:

4:5 Look, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and terrible day of the Lord arrives. 4:6 He will encourage fathers and their children to return to me, so that I will not come and strike the earth with judgment.

This shows us that the day of the Lord is now, not in some future time.