Our text for today is Matthew 3:13-15
Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. But John would have hindered him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and you come to me?”
But Jesus, answering, said to him, “Allow it now, for this is the fitting way for us to fulfill all righteousness.”
I understand the question of John the Baptist. The purpose of John’s baptism didn’t seem to be relevant for Jesus. John’s message was one of repentance. He called people to turn away from their sinful ways, confess their sins, and be baptized as a symbol of their commitment to change their lives. For evidence of this read, Luke 3:3, “He [John] went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.”
Jesus had no need for repentance or forgiveness of sin, because, as we know, he never sinned. Surprised at Jesus’ request, John felt he did not need to baptize Jesus. Really, he was right, so then why did Jesus seek baptism.
Jesus’ answer was “to fulfill all righteousness.” Let me suggest an additional answer that might give guidance for all of our lives. By being baptized, Jesus was setting an example for others. Others who look to Jesus needed to know that they too should always do the right thing.
Jesus’ journey to go to his baptism, was a journey of several days – each way. It would have been far easier for Jesus to stay home and not make that difficult journey. He didn’t really need baptism, at least not for himself. But he inconvenienced himself, made a hard journey for those who follow him, for me, and for you.
From this great story we learn, no matter the circumstances, no matter the difficulties, always, always do the right thing.
Lonnie Davis