“[v.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: [v.17] And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matt. 3:16-17)
1. The Biblical mode of baptism is immersion.
2. The believer who submitted to baptism was always brought to the waters and not the other way around.
a. Matt. 3:6a “And where baptized of him in Jordan…”
b. Mk. 1:5b “…and where all baptized of him in the river Jordan…”
c. Jn. 3:23a “And John also was baptizing in Aenon near Salim, because there was much water there.”
d. Acts 8:36 “…See, here is water:”
e. Acts 8:38 “into the water…”
3. The Trinity revealed.
a. God the Father is revealed as “a voice from Heaven.”
b. God the Son is fulfilling His Father’s will in getting baptized.
c. God the Holy Spirit descends “like a dove.”
4. Lessons from the text:
a. God the Father has something to say: “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” The Lord Jesus Christ is always pleasing God. Everyone who takes up the name of Christ(i.e. Christians) should follow His example, and in doing so become well pleasing unto the Father. The obedience demonstrated in baptism is pleasing to God.
b. The Holy Spirit is said to be “like a dove.” Perhaps in a form of a dove, but more importantly, the Holy Spirit is sensitive and can easily be quenched or grieved. We must be sensitive not to hinder His work in our lives.
