THEMES FROM THE SYNOPTIC GOSPELS AND THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES (a) Narrate the events that led to the statement "This is my beloved Son with whom I am well p...

(a) The events that led to the statement "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:1-17)

In those days John the Baptist appeared, preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." He was the one foretold by the prophet Isaiah, a voice crying in the wilderness to prepare the way of the Lord. John wore a garment of camel's hair with a leather belt, and his food was locusts and wild honey. People from Jerusalem, all Judea and the region about the Jordan went out to him, confessed their sins and were baptized in the river Jordan. He rebuked the Pharisees and Sadducees, calling them a brood of vipers, and told them to bear fruit worthy of repentance. He declared that he baptized with water, but one mightier than he was coming who would baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire.

Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John to be baptized. John tried to prevent Him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" But Jesus answered, "Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfil all righteousness." Then John consented. When Jesus was baptized, He went up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on Him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased."

(b) Four steps to take to become committed to God

• Genuine repentance and turning from sin. One must confess and forsake sin, as John the Baptist preached, and seek God's forgiveness.
• Faith in and acceptance of Jesus Christ. Commitment begins with believing in Christ and receiving Him as Lord and Saviour.
• Regular prayer, worship and study of God's word. Constant fellowship with God through prayer, Bible study and worship deepens one's devotion.
• Obedience and a holy, fruitful life. One must obey God's commands, bear fruit worthy of repentance, and serve God and others faithfully.