Matthew 3:13-17 The Baptism of Jesus

Baptism in water was performed by the priests on proselytes - Gentiles who decided to embrace the God of Israel. It was a ritual of cleansing since Gentiles were considered unclean people. When John the Baptist appears on scene, he preaches a baptism for the forgiveness of sins, but unlike the priestly ritual, it is offered to the Jews also not just the Gentiles. This was very upsetting to the religious leaders of the day. 

Jesus submitted to John's baptism, not because he needed forgiveness for he was without sin, but to fulfill all righteousness. Jesus' acceptance of John's baptism is like a seal of approval to his life and ministry which promoted the coming of the Messiah and marks the beginning of his own ministry. At his baptism, the Father offers Jesus his own approval by opening the heavens, having the Spirit descend like a dove, and speak audibly to those present.

John also preached a baptism in the Spirit and fire that would be performed by the Christ. To explain this baptism, he uses an image from the harvest. The winnowing fork (verse 12) was used to grab the grain and chaff, throw it up in the air, and have them separate by the action of the wind. The grain, being heavier, would come back down to the threshing floor. The chaff, being lighter, would be blown by the wind and separate from the grain. Spirit baptism in this context has to do with conversion. Fire baptism in this context has to do with final judgment to unbelievers.

Baptism in water must follow Spirit baptism. Belief is the requisite for the baptismal waters. I will never forget my conversion (Nov.1974) or my baptism (Sep. 1975). God touched my life in such a radical way that it will be impossible to forget. My heart's desire after my baptism in the Spirit was to confess publicly that Jesus is my Lord. It is appalling to me to see people in the Church who play down the importance of baptism in water. Maybe it's because they have not been baptized in the Spirit or don't understand the teaching on baptism.

Lord, may I never forget the baptisms you have brought me through in my life. May I cherish those memories and live up to the significance of those events. I pray for those who struggle with baptism and don't see its importance. Open their eyes to see and fill their hearts with the desire to follow you, who to fulfill all righteousness were baptized as well.