“At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove.11 And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” Mark 1.9-11
Its not often that God speaks audibly about Jesus. According to Answers.com, “God also speaks audibly (three times in Jesus’ life). He spoke audibly 3 times and in each case pointed to Jesus. 1) This is my beloved son in whom I am well pleased. Baptism (Mark 1:11), 2) This is my Son listen to Him. Transfiguration (Matthew 17:5), 3) I have glorified your Name and will do it again. Last week of his life (John 12:28).” https://www.answers.com/religious-studies/How_many_times_did_God_speak_audibly_to_Jesus_in_the_New_Tesatament
Only three times in the entire New Testament is there ann account of God speaking about Jesus in the presence of Jesus. Three times the Father speaks to the Son publicly. So when God speaks, it is not insignificant. Rather, it’s one of the few times we hear what God has to say about Jesus (not counting Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah.)
Jesus came from Nazareth and John came from the wilderness. Both converged at the Jordan River for a historic meet up — two cousins, one being God in the flesh and born of a virgin, the other a prophet of God tasked with ushering in the Messiah. John and Jesus coming together to accomplish Gods purposes for humanity.
So, as John baptized Jesus, who was coming out of the water, Jesus saw heaven “being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove,” and he heard the voice — “You are my Son, whom I love, with you I am well pleased.” Not only did Jesus hear God’s voice, he saw the Spirit fall upon him. That’s incredible.
I don’t know about you but I’ve never heard the audible voice of God but I have felt his presence. I have heard him speak to my heart through worship, prayer and Scripture through the power of the Holy Spirit. And this is enough. God speaking to Jesus, so call could hear, was extraordinary. It might have been more for the benefit of the listeners than for Jesus himself.
Although God does not often speak out loud to us, he does speak quietly about the intentions and upon the impressions of our hearts. Listen for his voice. Rest in the silence of his Word. Allow the Spirit to speak and know that God is near.
“O Lord God, when you spoke to Jesus, you spoke to us. When you affirmed him as your Son, you affirmed us as your children. Come now, Holy Spirit, help us know the power of your love. Draw near to us that we might know and hear your voice. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen