John the Baptist is the forerunner of the... - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2024

Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptised by him.
Matthew 3:13

John the Baptist is the forerunner of the Messiah, the Redeemer and Ruler of Israel. His coming is announced in many places in the Old Testament, and everything points to the fact that the Messiah will soon appear. Not only John, but also all the people are full of expectation (e.g. Luke 2:25–38; 3:15).

In what way do you think the Messiah will come? How will they recognise Him?

It must impress us that just as Jesus Christ did not come into the world in a palace, so now, when He begins His public ministry, there are no signs of outward splendour.

At the Jordan, John is baptising all who respond to his call to repent, to enter into a renewed relationship with God, and to await the Messiah. Then suddenly the Son of God Himself comes to the river. Outwardly, He is indistinguishable from the others. He doesn’t place Himself on the same level as John; He doesn’t cry out, “I am the One you are waiting for!” No, Jesus identifies Himself with those who confess their sins and are baptised by John (Matthew 3:6).

Jesus wants to be baptised by John? John will not allow that, for Jesus Himself has no sins to confess. “Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfil all righteousness”, the Lord declares to him (v. 15).

We are not used to seeing such attitudes from the rulers of ancient times. Here no self-importance is shown, but true humility. Here there is no arbitrary action, but the will of God. And here there is no display of splendour that would set the prince apart from the others, but real fellowship between the Son of God and all the God-fearing ones.

(to be continued)

Today’s reading: Deuteronomy 23:1-26 · Galatians 2:1-10