God's Testimony at Jesus' Baptism

IIT UBF - University Bible Fellowship at IIT

God's Testimony at Jesus' Baptism

Date: Jan. 26, 2021

Passage

Matthew 3:13-17 (ESV)

13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. 14 John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” 15 But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. 16 And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; 17 and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”

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Daily Bread

Key Verse: 3:17

and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”

First, fulfilling all righteousness (13-15)

Jesus began his public ministry by coming to John to be baptized. John knew who Jesus was and was confused because it seemed backwards-he needed to be baptized by Jesus with the Holy Spirit. John wasn't wrong, but it was right for Jesus to begin his ministry with a display of dedication and obedience to God. Jesus was baptized not to repent, but to be commissioned for service as the Messiah.

Second, God the Father and the Holy Spirit testify (16-17)

When Jesus came out of the water after being baptized, John witnessed an extraordinary sight. Heaven opened above Jesus, and the Holy Spirit descended on him in the form of a dove. Then, God's voice spoke from heaven saying that Jesus was his beloved Son who always pleased him. This event has great significance because it was God's direct testimony about Jesus' identity. It is the basis of our faith.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for showing us who Jesus is through his baptism. Help me learn from Jesus how to please you.

One Word: Jesus is God's beloved Son

A Powerful Prayer

Acts 4:23-37

Key Verse: 4:29-30

And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness, while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus.”

Today's Question

What does the fourth commandment require?

See answer and references