1. We are presently studying "The Story of Jesus" to help us grow in our knowledge of Christ (2 Peter 3:18). 2. In this lesson we are studying passages that teach us about "Jesus' baptism."
Discussion:
I. IN THE GOSPELS WE READ ABOUT THE BAPTISM THAT JESUS RECEIVED
A. Jesus' baptism is recorded in: 1. Matthew 3:13-17 2. Mark 1:9-12 3. Luke 3:21-23. B. By carefully examining these passages we learn the details of Jesus' baptism. 1. Jesus traveled from Nazareth to the Jordan River to be baptized (Mark 1:9). 2. Jesus was baptized by John (Matthew 3:13; Mark 1:9). 3. John at first tried to prevent Jesus from being baptized (Matthew 3:14). a. When John baptized people, they confessed their sins (Matthew 3:5-6). b. John's baptism was based on "repentance" (Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3). c. John's baptism was "for the remission of sins" (Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3). 4. The purpose for Jesus' baptism was "to fulfill all righteousness" (Matthew 3:15). 5. When Jesus was baptized,: a. He prayed (Luke 3:21) b. the Spirit descended upon Him (Matthew 3:16; Mark 1:10; Luke 3:22; John 1:32-34) c. the Father identified Jesus as His Son (Matthew 3:17; Mark 1:11; Luke 3:22). 6. Jesus was about 30 years old when He was baptized (Luke 3:23). 7. After His baptism Jesus was led into the wilderness (Mark 1:12). C. These passages in the Gospels indicate that Jesus' baptism was a very important event. D. Jesus also included baptism in His plan of salvation.
II. IN THE NEW TESTAMENT WE READ ABOUT THE BAPTISM THAT CHRIST COMMANDED
A. Jesus included baptism in His Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16). B. By carefully examining a number of passages we learn the details of New Testament baptism. 1. The baptism that Jesus authorized is "for the remission of sins" (Acts 2:38). 2. Baptism is a likeness of Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4). 3. We are "baptized into one body" (1 Corinthians 12:13). 4. We are "baptized into Christ" (Galatians 3:27). 5. There is only one true baptism (Ephesians 4:5). 6. Baptism is a burial (Colossians 2:12). 7. We are saved when we are baptized (1 Peter 3:21). C. In Acts we read about many people who were baptized, including: 1. the 3,000 on Pentecost (2:41) 2. men and women in Samaria (8:12) 3. Simon (8:13) 4. the eunuch of Ethiopia (8:38) 5. Saul (9:18; 22:16) 6. Cornelius and his household (10:47-48) 7. Lydia and her household (16:15) 8. the jailer in Philippi (16:33) 9. 12 men in Ephesus (19:5).