Baptism of Jesus

January 12, 2014

Matthew 3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21-22; John 1:29-34

Today in our walk with Jesus, we will walk with Him to the Jordan River to be baptized by His cousin, John the Baptist.

The events surrounding the birth of Christ are only recorded in Matthew and Luke, whereas the baptism of Jesus is alluded to in all four Gospels. This indicates the importance of this event.

The baptism of Jesus signified the beginning of His public ministry. Baptism is also the first step of obedience in the in living for Christ.

The WALK to His baptism (v. 13).
1. The DEPARTURE—Jesus is now 30 years old (Luke3:23). He closed the door of His carpenter shop in Nazareth for the last time and departed for the Jordan River to be baptized (cf. v. 5).
2. The DISTANCE— A 60 mile walk. It is sad that some Christians won’t walk 60 feet to follow the Lord in water baptism.
3. The DETERMINATION—“To be baptized of him.” Christ came purposely to be baptized. A Christian needs to determine to obey the Lord and be baptized. Obedience is always done on purpose.
The WHY of His baptism (vs. 14-15).
1. John’s respectful OBJECTION (v.14).
  1. John’s baptism was the “baptism of repentance” (Mk.1:4cf. v. 6). Jesus was sinless and did not need to repent of anything. John’s objection was a good testimony of his recognition of the righteous character of Jesus.
  2. John perceived his own unworthiness. John refused to baptize the Pharisees because of their sins (vs. 7-8). Now, John humbly hesitated to baptize Jesus because of his own sinfulness.
2. Jesus’ righteous OBEDIENCE (v. 15). Baptism was the right thing to do.