“When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened 22 and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” Luke 3.21-22
First, why was Jesus baptized? He was not a sinner, nor did he need to repent. Second, was this when Jesus received the Holy Spirit, or did he have it before? Third, why did God speak audibly to Jesus? Your guess is as good as mine!
First, I believe Jesus was baptized as an example for others and as a declaration of his commitment to fully follow God. Matthew 3:13-15 suggests this when Jesus tells John, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” He was baptized to fulfill all righteousness, not because he needed to repent of sin.
Second, Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit, and there were signs of his being set apart and special. However, this may well be when Jesus was filled bodily with the Holy Spirit, as prophets in the Old Testament were when given assignments by God. The Spirit was at work in Jesus’ life, but perhaps in this moment, he was equipped with power to do the work God had commanded and called him to do. Thus, the indwelling of the Spirit was given fully. (This also points to the gift of the Holy Spirit during water and/or spirit baptism.)
Third, why did God speak aloud to Jesus? It was likely for affirmation, encouragement, and to bear witness to Jesus’ position as God’s Son. The benefit may have been for Jesus himself, for the hearers, or for us. Regardless, having the Father affirm Jesus as his Son, alongside the filling of the Spirit, suggests a Trinitarian relationship.
Two short verses hold so much meaning! These topics of baptism, the indwelling of the Spirit, and calling have significance for us as well. If we choose to follow Christ, we can expect similar affirmations. We may not hear an audible voice, but we will experience the quiet confidence that we are children of God, filled with the Holy Spirit, forgiven of sin, and called to a purpose.
Just as Jesus was initiated into God’s work—not only at birth but also at baptism—so we are called to love and serve him throughout our lives.
“O Lord God, you are good and faithful. When my love fails, you remain steadfast. When I am shaky in my faith, you relentlessly pursue me in power and love. Come now, Holy Spirit, fill me completely. Help me find in you my source of hope and strength. For you are good, and your love endures forever.” Amen