Today’s Bible study lesson comes from Mark 1:9-11. It tells about how John baptizes Jesus in the Jordan River.
But, why would Jesus need to be baptized?
Read the Scripture with me and let’s try to find out…
This event only takes a few lines in the Book of Mark.
But, many scholars call the baptism of Christ one of the most significant happenings in the Bible.
The baptism by John the Baptist marks the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. And, His teachings will change the face of history, and the world forever.
Baptism of Jesus Christ – John Baptizes Jesus
“In those days Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.
Immediately coming up out of the water, He saw the heavens opening, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon Him; and a voice came out of the heavens: “You are My beloved Son, in You I am well-pleased.” – Mark 1:9-11 NASB
Why Did Christ Need to be Baptized?
Did Jesus need to repent of sin like the rest of the people coming to John? Of course not. He had no sins.
Then why?
Read these four simple (possible) reasons Jesus stepped into the waters of the Jordan that day ..
First, As stated above, Jesus used this as a catapult to begin His ministry. With that ministry, He brought a message of salvation to all people (not just the Jews).
Second, Jesus supported the ministry of John the Baptist because John also offered freedom from sin through repentance and baptism by water.
Third, Jesus came to earth as a man. He walked the world as a human being with the same feelings, hopes and dreams as the rest of us.
And, He identified the need for being baptized by John to show identity with the people.
Fourth, as any good teacher, Christ lead by example, not just by talk.
He wanted to bring others to God through admittance of flaws and falling short of the glory of God as told in Romans 23.
If He himself was baptized, then others would follow in His footsteps. And, following Christ would help them become closer to God.
John Baptized Jesus – But, What Does Our Baptism Mean?
We do not know the power and the heart of God. So, these answers may not be complete.But, we do know that, when we accept Christ as Savior, the baptism is an outward symbol of our inner faith.
It’s also a witness to others.
The Journey Begins when John Baptizes Jesus
[easyazon_image align=”left” height=”160″ identifier=”0060633875″ locale=”US” src=”https://makingchristknown.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/51TfsERYclL.SL160.jpg” tag=”bobpardphot-20″ width=”106″]Just as the baptism of Jesus marked the beginning of His ministry, our acceptance of Him begins our journey of making new disciples.
We accomplish this great commission by telling others about Him. And more importantly, we set an example of His love.
The way we live and act speaks louder than our words. So, let’s not take this responsibility lightly.
Love in Christ
– Bob
Have you thought about following Jesus but you’re not sure how to accept Him? To discover more about the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please visit the verse, John 3:16 here.
==> Please read John 3:16 and find the love of Christ here..