We can’t understand Jesus’ baptism unless we understand what John the Baptist is doing.
Why is John baptizing out in the wilderness?
Supporting Scripture: Matthew 3:1-2 (ESV)
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John was calling people to a righteous walk with God in their and not only in their .
What is John’s baptism really about?
Supporting Scripture: Luke 3:3 (ESV)
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John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
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John’s baptism of repentance is not the same as our Christian baptism.
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Infant Baptism = parents commit, water applied, grace given, God claims, child claims, walk with Christ.
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Adult Baptism = confess sin, receive salvation in Christ, water applied, grace given, God claims, walk with Christ.
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Faithful Jews = confess sin, walk in righteousness, take water as a sign of walking in righteousness.
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Supporting Scripture: Luke 3:10-14 (ESV)
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“I’m walking in righteousness with God.”
Do you want to know how to walk with God? Start watching and emulating Jesus.
Are you all-in with Jesus?
Matthew 3:13-17 recounts the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. It’s a powerful and significant moment in the Gospels. Here are some personal reflection questions based on this passage:
1. Jesus’ Humility
- Why do you think Jesus, the Son of God, chose to be baptized by John, who was calling people to repentance?
- What does this act of humility reveal about Jesus’ character? How does this influence how you think about your own humility in the presence of God or others?
2. Obedience to God’s Will
- Jesus says in verse 15, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” What does this statement reveal about Jesus’ commitment to God’s will?
- In your own life, what are some areas where you struggle with obedience to God’s plan or timing? How can you align your will more closely with God’s?
3. The Role of the Holy Spirit
- In verse 16, the Holy Spirit descends like a dove upon Jesus. How does this symbol of the Holy Spirit encourage or challenge you in your own spiritual journey?
- Do you feel a need for the Holy Spirit’s presence and guidance in your life? How can you be more open to the Holy Spirit’s work within you?
4. The Father’s Affirmation
- In verse 17, God the Father says, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” How does this divine affirmation of Jesus’ identity and purpose impact your understanding of God’s love for Jesus and for us?
- How does it affect your own sense of identity and worth to know that God sees you as beloved and valuable? How does this truth shape your relationship with God?
5. Baptism and Its Significance
- Why do you think baptism is such an important part of the Christian faith? What does it symbolize for you personally?
- If you’ve been baptized, what did that moment mean for you at the time, and how has its significance grown or deepened over the years?
6. Public Declaration of Faith
- Jesus’ baptism was a public declaration of His obedience to God’s plan. In what ways does your faith need to be made public? Are there opportunities in your life where you can more openly share your faith or demonstrate it to others?
7. The Importance of Preparation
- Before Jesus was baptized, John the Baptist was preparing the way for the Messiah by calling people to repentance. How do you prepare your heart for encountering God in prayer, worship, and scripture reading?
- Is there any sin or obstacle in your life that you feel God is calling you to repent of, so you can experience a deeper relationship with Him?
8. The Connection Between Jesus and Us
- Jesus’ baptism marks the beginning of His public ministry, even though He was sinless. How do you relate to this idea of starting a new season or chapter in life, where God invites you to walk in a new direction or calling?
- How do you see Jesus as an example for your own life in terms of obedience, humility, and reliance on God?
9. God’s Affirmation in Your Own Life
- Jesus was affirmed by the Father in this passage. Have you experienced moments where God has spoken directly to you or affirmed you through scripture, prayer, or other people? What did that mean to you?
- How can you listen for and be more receptive to God’s affirmation in your life?