January 25 - The Meaning of Jesus’ Baptism

Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. – Matthew 3:13 (KJV)

During this time, many came to John to receive the baptism of repentance, confessing their sins. Yet, when Jesus approached John at the Jordan, it was not to confess His own sins. As the spotless Lamb of God, He carried no sin of His own. Instead, He stood there as the Substitute for sinners, bearing the guilt of humanity. Jesus did not seek baptism for His own repentance but on behalf of all who would believe in Him. In doing so, Christ affirmed the sacredness of baptism and set an example for His followers by participating in it. Through this act, He identified Himself with humanity, becoming our Representative and Head. Taking upon Himself the sins of the world, He willingly counted Himself among transgressors and walked the path required of every sinner.

After rising from the waters, Jesus stepped onto the riverbank and knelt in prayer. At this pivotal moment, as He prepared to begin His public ministry as the Messiah, the humanity of Jesus—though innocent and pure—humbly sought strength and guidance from His heavenly Father. His prayer was unlike any that had ever reached the ears of angels. They waited in awe, ready to carry a message of assurance from the Father to the Son.

But it was not through angelic messengers that the response came. The glory of the Father Himself shone from the heavens. The skies opened, and beams of divine light rested upon Jesus in the form of a dove, glistening like polished gold. This symbol of a dove represented the gentleness and kindness of Christ’s character. And then, from the opened heavens, the voice of God declared: “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17, KJV).

Though Jesus had taken on humanity, God Himself affirmed the divine Sonship of Christ. This proclamation was not only for Jesus but also for all who would believe in Him. Through the excellence of His beloved Son, humanity is accepted and exalted in the sight of God.

The prayer Jesus offered on the banks of the Jordan encompasses everyone who places their faith in Him. In His baptism, we find the assurance of God’s promise that we, too, are accepted in the Beloved. When the Father declared, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased,” He extended this acceptance to all who unite themselves with Christ through faith and obedience.

Through His example, Jesus has opened the way to the throne of the infinite God. He has bridged the gap between heaven and earth, offering us access to the Father. May we find strength, assurance, and purpose in following the path He has laid before us, knowing that His prayer and His baptism include all who trust in Him.