In the verses from Matthew 3:13-17, we see the baptism of Jesus Christ. In brief, this Scripture passage tells how Jesus is baptized by John the Baptist marking the beginning of Christ’s ministry. And, we see a clear appearance of the Trinity.
But, exactly what is the Trinity of God? I don’t propose to know all the answers. However, the examples below help explain this miraculous event. So, let’s learn more about this enlightening event!
Baptism of Jesus Christ by John the Baptist, the Ministry of Christ Begins
Then Jesus arrived from Galilee at the Jordan coming to John, to be baptized by him.
But John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I have need to be baptized by You, and do You come to me?”
But Jesus answering said to him, “Permit it at this time; for in this way it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.”
Then he permitted Him.
After being baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and lighting on Him, and behold, a voice out of the heavens said, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased.” – Matthew 3:13-17 NASB
Jesus’ Baptism and The Trinity
In modern times, the question of; “What is the Trinity“ would constitute a major FAQ, wouldn’t it? Put simply, the Trinity means that God is three persons and yet one in essence. In the passage from Matthew, all three persons of the Trinity are present and active.
- God the Father speaks;
- God the Son is baptized;
- God the Holy Spirit descends upon Jesus.
Confusing? Yes!
God is one, yet in three persons at the same time. In fact, this remains one of God’s incomprehensible mysteries. The concept of the Trinity is foundational to Christians because it defines the nature of God. And, it seals His relationship with humanity.
The Trinity underscores the unity and diversity within God’s nature. It illustrates how God can be both transcendent and immanent. In short, understanding the Trinity is essential for grasping the full scope of Christian beliefs about;
- salvation,
- God’s divine love,
- and the nature of Christ.
Other Bible references that mention the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are,
- Matthew 28:19;
- John 15:26;
- and Corinthians 12:4-13.
Matthew 28:19 emphasizes the Trinity formula in the Great Commission. In a word, Jesus commanded believers to baptize “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
John 15:26 speaks of the relationship and roles within the Trinity. In this passage Jesus promises the coming of the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, sent from the Father. This event happened at Pentecost.
Corinthians 12:4-13 highlights the diverse gifts of the Spirit. These “spiritual gifts” originate from God. Equally, the gifts illustrate the unity and diversity within the Trinity.
Understanding the Trinity
The Trinity is probably one of the most misunderstood excerpts in the Bible. However, the comparisons below helped me to understand the concept. They are;
1. Water
Water can be in three different forms —
- Liquid
- Frozen (ice)
- Gas (steam)
But, all in all, the elements remain the same. Water is water — no matter what form it takes.
2. We can be three persons.
Using this analogy helped me to understand from a human perspective: Personally, I belong to these three groups. I’m;
- son to my parents
- husband to my wife
- father to my children
But, in all these I’m still the same person. Now, don’t confuse this with the Trinity of God. The examples above don’t make us omnipotent — God is!
We Are Not Omnipotent
Some things are very difficult to understand from our limited human perspective. But don’t you feel that God, the Creator of the universe, with all his power could accomplish this feat?
Things We Need to Know about Christ
All we really have to understand is faith — the faith that;
- Jesus came to earth as a child,
- lived among humans,
- went to the cross to die for our shortcomings,
- and rose on the third day so that we could have a relationship with him.
I don’t claim understanding of all these things. But I’m sure glad Christ gave it all for me – Aren’t you?
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you would like to know more about how to receive the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to read John 3:16 and find more.