Categories: Matthew

Matthew 3

Table of Contents hide

Matthew 3 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

Photo credit: Nelson’s New Illustrated Commentary

Pictured is the traditionally accepted site (the Jordan River) for the baptism of Jesus. As I read this chapter, there are many questions that come to mind. Why did Jesus have to be baptized even though He was without sin? Why did God speak audibly to Jesus and all those who were present?

Why did Jesus need to be baptized? He tells John the Baptist exactly why. He says, “it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” In the same way that baptism today is a way for us to identify our lives with Christ publicly, Jesus was identifying himself with us, people who didn’t deserve a Savior, and fulfilling all righteousness by doing so. In the same way that He offered Himself for a world that didn’t deserve it, He asks us to do the same.

It is also important to understand that Jesus was validating John the Baptist’s ministry. The people who were following John now understood that his ministry was truly from God and that all he had spoken would come true.

But the most powerful moment in this story is God’s words that are spoken over His Son. What does the Father say to the Son? “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased.” In that simple statement, God has filled His Son with purpose, identity, and affirmation. He is prepared for ministry. The Kingdom of God has been unleashed upon the kingdom of man.

On top of all this, Jesus’ baptism was a fulfillment of prophecy.

“Behold, My Servant, whom I uphold; My chosen one in whom My soul delights. I have put My Spirit upon Him; He will bring forth justice to the nations.”

Isaiah 42:1 NASB

“I will surely tell of the decree of the LORD: He said to Me, ‘You are My Son, Today I have begotten You.

Psalms 2:7 NASB

The immensity of this proclamation by God is crucial. It forever ties Christ to His Father in Heaven, sending a clear message to both humanity and the spiritual realm. We know this proclamation had significance in the spiritual world because the very next chapter, Satan quotes this precise phrase, “…if you are the Son of God…”

Let’s unpack that final thought and make it personal. John prepares the way. Jesus is baptized. God speaks. Everything seems to be just as it should be. But Satan is watching. After Jesus’ identity is affirmed by God, Satan immediately begins poking holes in this truth. Now ask yourself, do you think this is any different for you? In other words, we should not be surprised when Satan comes knocking after a mighty encounter with our Father in Heaven.

God’s voice was the only voice Jesus needed. It was the only voice He followed. When we are locked into God’s truth in His Word and in prayer, we should expect to face adversity from the enemy. Jesus received the ultimate affirmation and was immediately and relentlessly tested by Satan. We must stand firm on the promises that God has spoken over our lives!

Print 🖨