7
When the crowds came to John for baptism, he said, “You brood of snakes! Who warned you to flee God’s coming wrath?
8
Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God. Don’t just say to each other, ‘We’re safe, for we are descendants of Abraham.’ That means nothing, for I tell you, God can create children of Abraham from these very stones.
9
Even now the ax of God’s judgment is poised, ready to sever the roots of the trees. Yes, every tree that does not produce good fruit will be chopped down and thrown into the fire.”
11
John replied, “If you have two shirts, give one to the poor. If you have food, share it with those who are hungry.”
12
Even corrupt tax collectors came to be baptized and asked, “Teacher, what should we do?”
13
He replied, “Collect no more taxes than the government requires.”
14
“What should we do?” asked some soldiers. John replied, “Don’t extort money or make false accusations. And be content with your pay.”
15
Everyone was expecting the Messiah to come soon, and they were eager to know whether John might be the Messiah.
16
John answered their questions by saying, “I baptize you with water; but someone is coming soon who is greater than I am—so much greater that I’m not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.
17
He is ready to separate the chaff from the wheat with his winnowing fork. Then he will clean up the threshing area, gathering the wheat into his barn but burning the chaff with never-ending fire.”