Matthew 3:13-17

3:13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to [word expresses purpose] be baptized [by His own initiative; not a response to John’s call to repentance] by John [only direct encounter between Jesus and John in the Gospels].

3:14 But John tried to deter [prevent] him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you [emphasizes John’s feeling of unworthiness], and do you come to me?”

3:15 Jesus replied, “Let it be so [allow to happen] now; it is proper [appropriate, fitting, suitable, right] for us to do this to fulfill [“to fill out,” as wind fills a sail] all righteousness [righteousness of life through obedience in accordance with God’s will; Jesus wanted to do all that was part of relationship of obedience to God].” Then John consented.

3:16 As soon as [immediately] Jesus was baptized [to dip, plunge, or immerse; signified Jesus’ identification with God’s purpose in the world; Jesus identified with sinners He came to save; formal beginning of His public ministry], he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he [Jesus] saw [visible affirmation of Jesus] the Spirit of God descending like a dove [symbol of the Holy Spirit; symbol of gentleness, meekness, peace] and lighting on him.

3:17 And a voice from heaven [God’s voice] said [verbal affirmation of Jesus], “This is my Son [cf. Ps. 2:7], whom I love [first mention of love in NT (in context of the Father’s love for His Son); cf. Gen. 22:2]; with him I am well pleased [cf. Isa 42:1].”