WHY WAS JESUS BAPTIZED? by Nick Davis for Core Christianity
Why did Jesus need to be baptized? This question seemed to perplex even John the Baptist (Matt. 3:14). To answer it, we need to know what kind of baptism Jesus underwent and the purpose of his ministry. Then we can see the significance of our baptism.
Jesus Underwent the Baptism of John
It’s significant that Jesus was baptized by John, because this baptism was a different kind than what we receive.
Now is your chance to support Gospel News Network.
We love helping others and believe that’s one of the reasons we are chosen as Ambassadors of the Kingdom, to serve God’s children. We look to the Greatest Commandment as our Powering force.
When Jesus comes to John for baptism in Matthew 3:13–17, John had just declared in Matthew 3:11, “I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” John clearly distinguishes between the baptism he offers and the one that Jesus will offer. This difference is of course not in the means of water, but that one is “for repentance” and the other, “with the Holy Spirit and fire.” John’s baptism and message make sense in light of who Jesus and the Old Testament declare him to be: John is among the line of the prophets who called people—especially God’s people Israel—to repent in light of coming judgment and to hope for the salvation of the Lord (see Ezek. 33:11; Isa. 30:15; Matt. 11:7-9). His baptism is an extension of that message. Why Jesus would receive such a baptism has to do with his mission.
Baptized to Fulfill All Righteousness
When Jesus comes to John for his baptism, it’s not because he needs to repent for sin, but “to fulfill all righteousness” (Matt. 3:15). When Jesus is baptized, it initiates his ministry as the true and faithful Israel, who answered the call for righteousness perfectly. Whereas Israel had constantly failed to keep the law and to heed the call of the prophets to righteousness, Jesus, in receiving John’s baptism, was taking on the role of the only perfectly faithful Israelite. Thus, we have this well-known vindication from the Father; “And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased’” (Matt. 3:16–17).
