13At that time Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. 14But John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and do You come to me?”
15“Let it be so now,” Jesus replied. “It is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness in this way.” Then John permitted Him. (Matthew 3:13-15)
Thoughts: The one born of a virgin did not need to have his sins cleansed. The one who was both God and human did not need to have covenant bond between him and God- He embodied that bond. But the one thing baptism did for Jesus is it bonded him to those who would be baptized in his name after him. It bonded him to the church by example. It was just fitting. He was made, among other things, to be bonded to the church in baptism- so it was fitting to do it. It also "fulfilled all righteousness" about baptism ("this way"). God was submitting to His own demands and commands. He wasn't saying, "Y'all do this to be good" and then not doing it himself. It was part of being a righteous leader. So why did Jesus get baptized? He got baptized for us- to set us an example; to indicate it is important; to accommodate Himself to His own ordinance.
But there is also a bit more. It is why baptism is not just something we have to do, but it is a real and present blessing of God. God is able and should bless us. He is alive and seeks to be near us. Obedience is a first requirement for God's blessing, but it is not alone. When Christ was baptized he heard the Father's voice saying, "This is my Son whom I love with Him I am well pleased." Is that not blessing enough? But there is more blessing- the Holy Spirit descended on Him as a dove. In other words God was especially present with Him- and everyone knew it. It is not so visible with us who are baptized after Him. But the Father is pleased and the Spirit comes upon us too. Baptism is a sign of the Spirit's coming upon our lives and drawing us to Himself. Baptism is an ordinance to do, but a sacrament to receive and accept.
But there is also a bit more. It is why baptism is not just something we have to do, but it is a real and present blessing of God. God is able and should bless us. He is alive and seeks to be near us. Obedience is a first requirement for God's blessing, but it is not alone. When Christ was baptized he heard the Father's voice saying, "This is my Son whom I love with Him I am well pleased." Is that not blessing enough? But there is more blessing- the Holy Spirit descended on Him as a dove. In other words God was especially present with Him- and everyone knew it. It is not so visible with us who are baptized after Him. But the Father is pleased and the Spirit comes upon us too. Baptism is a sign of the Spirit's coming upon our lives and drawing us to Himself. Baptism is an ordinance to do, but a sacrament to receive and accept.
Prayer: Lord, baptism is a fitting blessing for us. Help us this week to appreciate it and to grow in its appreciation.
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