Matthew 3 - Jesus is baptised

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Here in Matthew 3 we read about John the Baptist and what happened when Jesus came to him for baptism.

John preached repentance 'because the kingdom of heaven is at hand'. John fulfils Isaiah's prophecy (Isaiah 40:3) and that of Malachi (Malachi 3:1). John lived as a nomad in terms of his dress and his food sources and he was directly critical of the religious elite in Israel. He points forward to someone greater, someone who will baptise with the Holy Spirit and with fire (Acts 2:16-21).

So when this 'greater One', Jesus, asks for baptism, John is understandably unsure. Notice especially how Jesus is confirmed in what he does by the Spirit and by the voice from heaven.

How do you view Jesus in the light of what happens in this chapter? Like John, although we're unworthy it's important that we do whatever Jesus tells us. He knows our hearts and he knows the Father's purpose for us. Is my life a life of obedience? Is yours?

Notice that already, so early in Matthew, we see clearly that Jesus is central in our own lives and must be at the heart of all we do and say and are. And now he is ready to make a start.

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