ETCF IV.31. THE BAPTISM OF CHRIST

From  Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul (c) 1992 R. C. Sproul Published by Tyndale ISBN 0-8423-2006-1

Part IV. Jesus Christ ~ 31. The Baptism of Christ

Biblical passages for reflection
[Links to the ESV Bible]:

Isaiah 40:3; Matthew 3:13-17; Mark 1:1-5; 2 Corinthians 5:21;

Summary:

1. John’s baptism was preparation for the coming of the Messiah.
2. John’s baptism was insulting to the Jewish officials because it meant they were “unclean.”
3. Jesus was baptized not for His own sins but to identify with the sinners He came to save.
4. Jesus was ordained or anointed at His baptism.

My Reflections:
John correctly (again) identified Jesus as the *remover* of sin. "I need to be baptized by you."...this speaks again to Jesus divinity: Luke 5.21 "...who can *forgive* sins but God alone?"

2 Corinthians 5:21...is helpful in understanding summary point #3.