DEVOTION – DAY 324

Matthew.3:13-15 “Jesus’ Baptism”

Matthew 3:13-15 Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented.

John, the Baptist was calling people to repentance for their sins. People sought Him in the desert to confess of their sins following which, John would baptize them in the Jordan River. In Matthew 3:13-15, Jesus also went to John, the Baptist to be baptized. This surprised John because he knew that he was unworthy to do what Jesus requested of him. John knew Jesus was the Messiah and that He had no sin. Yet, Jesus still asked to baptized.

There were several reasons why Jesus wanted to be baptized. One of the reasons were given by Jesus in v15. Jesus said that His baptism would “fulfill all righteousness”. He meant that His baptism would indicate that He was being consecrated to God. He would be officially approved by God as seen by the descent of the Holy Spirit upon Jesus like a dove after His baptism. All God’s righteous requirements for the Messiah were fully met in Jesus. A second reason was that by being baptized, Jesus was completely identifying Himself with humanity’s sin and failure. Even though Jesus never sinned, He would be our substitute. A third reason was that His baptism would be a public announcement about the arrival of the Messiah and the start of His ministry. John, the Baptist would openly announce this. A fourth reason was that Jesus’ wanting baptism would be an example for all His followers. His followers were to desire baptism as a public confession of their faith in Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

We have used these verses to help people understand why after they have privately invited Jesus into their lives as their Lord and Savior, they need to take the next step to consider undergoing water baptism. Their decision to put their faith in Jesus as Lord and Savior was private between them and the Lord. Like Jesus, their conversion must be made public as they prepare to be identified with Jesus and be a part of His body, the Church. There is no better way to make that public announcement than through the act of water baptism.

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, thank you for clothing us in Christ’ righteousness. Thank you for the privilege of accepting us as your children. Please help us to live fruitful and purposeful lives for your glory. We humbly ask this in the mighty name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Questions

  1. Have you been baptized? If not, what is preventing you from being baptized?
  2. What did your own baptism experience mean to you? Share and discuss.
  3. Why is it important for Christians to follow Jesus’ example to be baptized?
  4. How can you help your own loved ones who are yet to be baptized to get baptized?