Huntington Church of Christ

The gospel of Matthew records the event that marks the beginning of Jesus' three year ministry upon this earth. The event -- Jesus' Baptism (Matthew 3;13-17).

Why was Jesus baptized? John the baptist did not see the need for Jesus to be baptized. In fact, it is said, "John would have hindered him saying, I haven eed to be baptized of thee." John obviously was aware of the sinless nature of the Christ, but Jesus answered, "It becometh us to fulfill all righteousness." He was baptized because God had instructed man to do so (through John) and deemed it RIGHT1 Jesus was simply obeying the Father's command. A lesson is there for all to learn. When Christ or his apostles command us to be baptized for the remission of our sins, then we must humbly submit and obey. (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; John 13:20)

Another wonderful fact presented in this account concerns the three distinct personalities of the godhead (the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) being present for this great event. "And Jesus (God the Son -- dsd) when he was baptized, went up straightway from the water; and lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God (God the Spirit -- dsd) descending as a dove, and coming upon him; and lo, a voice (God the Father -- dsd) out of heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." Their wonderful presence not only condoned the obedient act of baptism, but well emphasized their approval of Jesus' beginning work.

Daniel S. Dow
Huntington Church of Christ