The beginning of Jesus’ public life is marked by his baptism in the River Jordan. This event is significant as it marks the start of Jesus’ ministry and his proclamation of the Kingdom of God.
The Baptism of Jesus
The baptism of Jesus is recorded in all four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. According to the Gospel accounts, John the Baptist baptized Jesus in the River Jordan.
Why Was Jesus Baptized?
John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. So why did Jesus, who was without sin, need to be baptized?
Jesus’ baptism was not a sign of repentance but rather an act of obedience to God’s will. In Matthew 3:15, Jesus says to John, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.”
The Holy Spirit Descends
After Jesus was baptized, something remarkable happened. The Holy Spirit descended upon him like a dove, and a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:16-17).
This event marks the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry and his divine mission on earth.
The Temptation in the Wilderness
Immediately after his baptism, Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness where he fasted for forty days and forty nights. During this time, he was tempted by Satan.
The First Temptation
Satan tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread. But Jesus answered, “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).
The Second Temptation
Satan then took Jesus to the highest point of the temple and tempted him to jump off, saying that the angels would save him. But Jesus responded with, “Do not put the Lord your God to the test” (Matthew 4:7).
The Third Temptation
Finally, Satan took Jesus to a high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world. He offered to give them to Jesus if he would bow down and worship him.
But Jesus replied, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only'” (Matthew 4:10).
Conclusion
The baptism of Jesus marked the beginning of his public ministry and divine mission on earth. His obedience in being baptized set an example for us to follow. The temptation in the wilderness reminds us that even though we may face trials and temptations in life, we can overcome them through faith in God.