Matthew 3
- beth72737
- Sep 15
- 2 min read
Matthew introduces us to John the Baptizer, a prophet out in the wilderness, clothed in camel’s hair and calling people to repentance. John’s ministry was not about himself but about preparing people to meet Jesus, the promised Savior. His message was clear: Turn away from sin and return to God. At the close of the chapter, the One John was preparing for arrives—Jesus Himself—who is baptized by John in the Jordan River.
Through repentance, we confess our need for forgiveness and open our hearts to receive God’s mercy. In this way, repentance prepares us to meet Jesus. When we turn from sin, we turn toward the One who takes away our sin. For us today, repentance is still essential. In Baptism and daily through confession, we acknowledge our sin and cling to Christ’s forgiveness.
John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance for sinners. But Jesus is the sinless Son of God. Why would He need to be baptized? Jesus Himself gives the answer in Matthew 3:15: “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.”
By being baptized, Jesus identifies with sinners. Though He had no sin of His own, He stood in the water with sinners, pointing to the day when He would bear our sins on the cross. His baptism marks the beginning of His public ministry and reveals that He came not to be separate from sinners, but to save them.
Luther says, "Christ accepted it from John for the reason that he was entering into our stead, indeed our person, that is, becoming a sinner for us, taking upon Himself the sins which He had not committed, and wiping them out and drowning them in His holy baptism."
Closing Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, You are the spotless Lamb who takes away the sin of the world. Thank You for entering the waters of baptism, standing in our place, and fulfilling all righteousness for us. Lead us to daily repentance, and strengthen us to live as Your baptized children, forgiven and free. Amen.
How does repentance keep us ready to meet Jesus daily?
What does it mean to you that Jesus stood in the place of sinners at His baptism?
How can remembering your Baptism encourage you this week?
Repentance reminds me that I am a sinner and I need Jesus and his forgiveness every single day (honestly, every single second of every day).