Luke 3:21-22

Applebury's Comments

The Baptism of Jesus
Scripture

Luke 3:21-22 Now it came to pass, when all the people were baptized, that, Jesus also having been baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, 22 and the Holy Spirit descended in a bodily form, as a dove, upon him, and a voice came out of heaven, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.

Comments

when all the people were baptized.For the purpose of this baptism, see comment on Luke 3:16.

Jesus also having been baptized.It is important to notice the distinction between the purpose of the baptism of the people and the purpose of the baptism of Jesus by John. Jesus said His was to fulfill all righteousnessthat is, to do all things that meet the approval of God. See Matthew 3:15. John suggests two more reasons why Jesus was baptized. He had been told that the one upon whom he would see the Holy Spirit descending would be the one who would baptize in the Holy Spirit. Although John knew Jesushe said, I have need to be baptized by youhe needed this evidence that came at the time of Jesus baptism to be able to reveal Him to the people as the Son of God. See John 1:29-34.

and praying.Only Luke tells us that Jesus was praying when He was baptized. He also records a good many other things about the prayer life of Jesus.

the Holy Spirit descended.This was the sign to John that Jesus was the One who would baptize in the Holy Spirit. Peter also refers to the fact that God anointed him with the Holy Spirit and with power and that He went about doing good and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him (Acts 10:38).

a voice from heaven.The One who was designated Son of God at the time of His conception is now publically recognized by the Father. The Voice of God was heard three times during the ministry of Jesus: (1) at His baptism; (2) when He prayed after the Greeks came to see Him (John 12:28); and (3) at the time of His transfiguration (Luke 9:35).

The List of Jesus-' Ancestors