WEEK ONE:
TOPIC: THE BAPTISM OF JESUS CHRIST
a. Meaning and Purpose of baptism
Baptism is a Christian sacrament by which a person is submerged in water as a sign of spiritual cleansing process. It is often done for new believers and as a sign of commencement of a spiritual walk in the faith.
b. Synoptic account of baptism of Jesus Christ –
(Matthew 3:13-17, Mark 1:9-11, Luke 3:21-22)
The Baptism of Jesus according to Matthew’s account: Matthew 3:13-17
Jesus came from Galilee to meet John at the River Jordan to be baptized by him. When John saw him, he declined and said, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now; for thus it is fitting for us to fulfil all righteousness.” So he consented and Jesus was baptized. As He was coming out of the water, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and alighting on him; and a voice from heaven saying, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”
The Baptism of Jesus according to Mark’s account: Mark 1:9-11
Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. As he came out of the water immediately he saw the heavens opened and the Spirit descending upon him like a dove. Then a voice came from heaven, saying “Thou art my beloved Son; with thee I am well pleased.”
The Baptism of Jesus according to Luke’s account – Luke 3:21-22
Jesus came to be baptized like everyone else. While he was praying, the heaven opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form, as a dove. Then a voice came from heaven, “Thou art my beloved Son; with thee I am well pleased.”
c. Significance of baptism of Jesus Christ to Christian faith
The Baptism of Jesus Christ implies that;
1. It is an example to every believer that everyone must be baptized. It underscores the importance of baptism to Christian faith.
2. It represents the death to sin and resurrection to life which Jesus Christ represents
3. It signifies the beginning of the ministry of Jesus
4. It is also a sign of humility that status is not an excuse.
Unprecedented 