His steps, His story: the baptism of Jesus
When Jesus came to the Jordan River to be baptized, John immediately recognized that something seemed backward. John was preaching repentance and baptizing sinners, but Jesus had no sin to confess.
John tried to stop Him, saying that he needed to be baptized by Jesus instead.
Christ answered:
“Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Matthew 3:15 ESV
Jesus was not baptized because He needed cleansing. He stepped into the water in obedience to the Father and identified Himself with the people He had come to save. Before He preached publicly, called disciples, or performed miracles, He submitted.
When Jesus came out of the water, the heavens opened. The Holy Spirit descended like a dove, and the Father declared, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”
This moment gives us a clear picture of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It also reveals that the ministry of Jesus began from a place of identity and obedience. He did not obey to earn the Father’s love. He obeyed as the beloved Son.
The same order matters for us. We are not saved by baptism, and we do not earn God’s grace through religious actions. Salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ. But those who belong to Him are called to follow Him through surrender and obedience.
The full message above explores Matthew 3 and the baptism of Jesus. It challenges believers who have been negotiating with God, delaying obedience, or waiting until everything feels convenient. Jesus stepped into the Jordan willingly.
If Christ has already made the next step clear, stop bargaining. Trust Him, surrender, and say yes.
Comments