Matthew 3:16
Matthew 3:16
And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him.
In Matthew 3:16, we witness a profound moment in the life of Jesus—His baptism. Jesus, though sinless, chose to be baptized to fulfill all righteousness. This act of obedience was not about cleansing from sin, but about aligning Himself with God's plan and identifying with humanity's need for redemption. As He came up from the water, the heavens opened, and the Spirit of God descended upon Him like a dove, marking a divine affirmation of His identity and mission. The baptism of Jesus serves as a model for all believers. It demonstrates that baptism is not merely a ritual, but an act of obedience that opens the door for the Holy Spirit to empower us for the work ahead. Just as the Spirit descended upon Jesus, baptism invites God's Spirit to dwell in us, guiding and equipping us for service. Baptism, therefore, is not just a symbol of repentance, but a profound spiritual moment where believers receive divine approval and the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit.
1 Corinthians 6:11
And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
1 Peter 3:21
The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Romans 6:4
Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
Mark 1:9
And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan.