Jesus Is Baptized by John in the River Jordan

The Baptism of Our Lord

Luke 3: 15 - 17, 21 - 22
Matthew 3: 13 - 17
Mark 1: 4 - 11
John 1: 29 - 34

Many people came to the River Jordan to be baptized (a ritual washing away of sins) by John the Baptizer. John knew about Jesus' preaching and teaching, believing that his own purpose was to prepare people to listen to Jesus.

When Jesus asked John to baptize him, John was taken aback, because he believed Jesus was a far better person than he.

1. Who is the Christ?

[The Christ is the savior who God promised to send to save the people from their sins.]

2. What happened when Jesus prayed at his own baptism?

[Heaven opened and the Holy Spirit descended in the form of a dove.]

3. What did the people hear?

[They heard a voice from heaven saying, "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.]