Jesus' Baptism

Scripture: Matthew 3:13-17

Song: ‘Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus

The baptism of Jesus is a bit of a puzzle to us. He was without sin and without need of repentance. Why His baptism then?

Jesus’ baptism endorsed the work of John. It said both to John and to the multitudes that Jesus approved of his activity as forerunner.

Jesus’ baptism endorsed the work of Jesus. It had been told John, that he could identify the Messiah by the Spirit’s descent at His baptism. John bore witness to this sign from heaven and gave additional testimony to Jesus’ sinlessness. His witness to Jesus’ identity was confirmed by the Father’s announcement: “This is My beloved Son.”

Jesus’ baptism silenced His critics. When the lawyers questioned Jesus’ authority, He questioned them concerning John’s baptism. The force of His question would have been blunted had Jesus Himself not been baptized of John. There was no room for anyone to accuse Him, not even the appearance of impropriety or neglect in His conduct.

Jesus’ baptism identified Jesus with sinners. Jesus had committed no sin, but He came to the Jordan with sinners to be baptized of John. He also offered the animal sacrifices of the Law, not because He needed to, but because He identified with sinful men who did.

Jesus’ baptism “fulfilled all righteousness” in all these ways and perhaps in others. It was not so much for Him as if He needed baptism as it was to show us we needed Him.

Jason Moore