(a) Examine the baptism of Jesus as narrated in Matthew's Gospel (b) In what two ways is baptism relevant to Christian?

(a) The baptism of Jesus as narrated in Matthew's Gospel (Matthew 3:13-17)

John the Baptist was preaching in the wilderness of Judea and baptising people in the river Jordan as they confessed their sins, in preparation for the coming of the kingdom of heaven. Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptised by him.

John tried to prevent Him, saying, "I need to be baptised 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 and baptised Him.

When Jesus was baptised, He went up immediately from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on Him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased."

Thus at the baptism of Jesus the whole Trinity was manifested: the Son being baptised, the Holy Spirit descending as a dove, and the Father speaking from heaven in approval.

(b) Two ways baptism is relevant to Christians

• It is a public sign of repentance, faith and admission into the Christian community, identifying the believer with Christ.
• It symbolises the washing away of sin and the beginning of a new life in Christ, following the example set by Jesus Himself.