How does Matthew 3:15 demonstrate Jesus' obedience to God's will? The Verse in Focus “ But Jesus replied, ‘Let it be so now; it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness in this way.’ Then John permitted Him.” (Matthew 3:15) Unpacking “Fulfill All Righteousness” • “Fulfill” points to completing God’s revealed plan, not merely setting an example. • “All righteousness” refers to everything the Father requires to accomplish salvation and publicly authenticate the Messiah. • By consenting to baptism—though sinless—Jesus embraces every step the Father laid out for His incarnate mission. Snapshots of Obedience in the Moment • Submission to the Father’s timetable: Jesus says, “Let it be so now,” yielding to God’s exact timing. • Identification with sinners: entering John’s baptism aligns Him with the people He came to save (2 Corinthians 5:21). • Humility before a lesser servant: allowing John, His forerunner, to baptize Him demonstrates willing self-abasement (Philippians 2:8). • Public inauguration of ministry: the Father’s voice and the Spirit’s descent (vv.16–17) confirm Jesus’ obedient act as Heaven’s approved path. Threads That Run Through the Whole Bible • John 4:34 — “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to finish His work.” • Hebrews 10:7 — “ ‘Here I am… I have come to do Your will, O God.’” • Philippians 2:8 — “He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross.” • Hebrews 5:8 — “Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from what He suffered.” • Romans 5:19 — “Through the obedience of the One the many will be made righteous.” Matthew 3:15 forms the opening chord; the verses above reveal the full symphony of lifelong obedience ending at Calvary. Takeaways for Daily Living • Obedience means aligning with God’s plan even when we see no personal need—Jesus sought baptism though spotless. • True righteousness is not self-defined; it is received and walked out by conforming to God’s revealed will. • Humility precedes heavenly affirmation; the voice from Heaven followed the submissive step. • Our union with Christ calls us to mirror His posture: prompt, joyful, and complete obedience, confident that the Father’s approval rests on the path He sets. |
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