Establish Common Ground

But Jesus said, “It should be done, for we must carry out all that God requires.” So John agreed to baptize him. Matthew 3:15

What a great example of Jesus’ ability to honor the past while forging new ground!

When Jesus came to John the Baptist to be baptized, John refused him, saying, “I am the one who needs to be baptized by you” (Matthew 3:14).

It was the very beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. He was aware that his privacy would soon be shattered and that people would begin to scrutinize his every move. He knew he’d be shaking up the marbles over the next few years, but at that moment, he started inside the box by following tradition and doing “all that God requires.”

When you’re planning to lead people into new territory, look for a comfortable entry point.

Find some common ground from which to step off.

Give people a reason to trust you by showing that you know what’s important to them.