Matthew 3:13-17
The Baptism of Jesus
13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan [River], to be baptized by him.(A)
14 But John tried to prevent Him [vigorously protesting], saying, “It is I who need to be baptized by You, and do You come to me?”
15 But Jesus replied to him, “Permit it just now; for this is the fitting way for us (a)to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John permitted [it and baptized] Him.
16 After Jesus was baptized, He came up immediately out of the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he (John) saw the (b)Spirit of God descending as a dove and lighting on Him (Jesus),(B)
17 and behold, a (c)voice from heaven said, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased and delighted!”(C)
Footnotes:
a.
Matthew 3:15: This act of baptism identified Jesus with sinners whose sins He would ultimately bear, and to whom His righteousness would be imparted.
b.
Matthew 3:16: The descent of the Holy Spirit identified Jesus in His humanity for His ministry as the Messiah.
c.
Matthew 3:17: This is the first instance recorded in the Gospels of the Father speaking audibly to His Son. Also see Matt 17:5; Mark 1:11; 9:7; Luke 3:22; 9:35; John 12:28.