"Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (v2). John, following the Old Testament prophetic tradition, called Israel to repentance. He urged them to turn from sin and open their hearts and lives to God’s righteousness, revealed in the Messiah Jesus. John warned the Pharisees and Sadducees (v7,9) that being Abraham’s descendants was not enough. The Messiah’s kingdom was for those willing to leave behind their pride and self-justification in order to embrace God’s salvation. 

“This is my beloved Son” (v17). God calls us to leave behind the sin and emptiness of self-idolatry, so that we can receive His beloved Son. Under the Messiah’s good rule, we find the life of peace and joy we desire.