Baptism Is a Big DealSample

Jesus’ baptism is a big deal.

When Jesus asked to be baptized, John the Baptist hesitated. Baptism is for the forgiveness of sins, but Jesus was sinless, so something seemed off. But Jesus insisted because he knew that his baptism was a big deal.

Luke tells us why: “And as [Jesus] was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: ‘You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased’” (Luke 3:21,22). Heaven was opened—the barrier between the physical and the spiritual world was temporarily opened. The Holy Spirit came down like a dove—a sign that Jesus was pure, innocent, and beautiful and that he would be the sacrifice for poor sinners, just like poor Mary and Joseph brought a dove to the temple for their sacrifice. The Father’s voice boomed with pride: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” No one has ever loved anyone more than the Father, and the Spirit loves the Son (and vice versa!).

This baptism was Trinity’s chance to declare the identity of Jesus. After 30 years on the earth, Jesus was still as pure as a dove and absolutely deserving of the Father’s love. He was no mere man. He was, and is, the only Son of the Father. That declaration is why Jesus’ baptism is a big deal. So as the Father said, “Listen to him!” (Mark 9:7).