What does fulfilling "all righteousness" mean for our daily Christian walk?

Setting of Matthew 3:15

“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)

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Meaning of “Fulfill All Righteousness”

• “Fulfill” speaks of completing, accomplishing, bringing to its intended goal.

• “All righteousness” refers to every requirement of God’s righteous will—nothing omitted, nothing neglected.

• In submitting to baptism—though sinless—Jesus publicly aligned Himself with the Father’s plan, identified with sinners (2 Corinthians 5:21), and affirmed John’s God-given ministry.

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How Jesus Models Obedience

• Voluntary submission: Philippians 2:5-8—He “humbled Himself by becoming obedient.”

• Identification with us: Hebrews 2:17—“made like His brothers in every way.”

• Reliance on Scripture’s authority: Matthew 4:4—“Man shall not live on bread alone.”

• Perfect conformity to the Father’s will: John 8:29—“I always do what pleases Him.”

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Daily Walk Implications

• Obedience is active, not theoretical. Faith that saves also acts (James 2:14-18).

• Righteousness is comprehensive—heart, word, deed (Micah 6:8).

• We follow Christ’s example: “Whoever claims to abide in Him must walk as Jesus walked” (1 John 2:6).

• Our baptism marked our own public pledge to pursue that walk (Romans 6:4).

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Practical Steps to Live It Out

1. Begin each day surrendered—“not My will, but Yours” (Luke 22:42).

2. Seek the Spirit’s help to obey the next clear command you know (Galatians 5:16).

3. Maintain accountability with fellow believers (Hebrews 10:24-25).

4. Let Scripture shape decisions—ask, “Does this fulfill God’s righteousness?” (Psalm 119:9).

5. Serve others sacrificially; Christ’s obedience always blessed people around Him (John 13:14-15).

6. Confess quickly when you miss the mark (1 John 1:9) and keep moving forward.

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Encouragement and Promise

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” (Matthew 5:6)

Christ fulfilled all righteousness on our behalf; now, empowered by His Spirit, we get to display that righteousness in everyday life until we see Him face to face.