Jesus Is Baptized
Notes
Transcript
Handout
Luke 3:15-22
Imagine, for a moment, a tightrope walker carefully stepping between two towering skyscrapers.
The view below is dizzying, but the walker keeps their eyes fixed ahead, concentrating on the goal in front of them.
Each step requires not only physical skill but also complete trust in the strength of the rope beneath them.
They don't look down or dwell on the height, but keep their focus straight ahead, trusting that the rope will hold and lead them safely across.
One wrong move could lead to disaster, yet they walk forward with confidence, knowing that the right kind of preparation and trust in their abilities will carry them through.
In many ways, the Christian walk can feel like this tightrope walk—a journey where boldness is required, where every step of faith feels precarious, and yet, we are called to move forward with conviction, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
As we dive into God’s Word today, we’ll explore John the Baptist’s life, Jesus’ baptism and see how we can learn what it takes to walk with this kind of boldness, conviction, and obedience.
Steps that may feel risky at times but are always supported by the unwavering strength and faithfulness of our Savior.
In looking at John’s example, I think we can learn to follow his example, and obey the Lord in three key areas:
I. Proclaim with Boldness
I. Proclaim with Boldness
15 And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not;
16 John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire:
17 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable.
John the Baptist proclaimed the coming Messiah with clarity and courage.
He was not the Messiah, but he was to prepare the way for the Messiah.
A. Preparation Through Boldness
A. Preparation Through Boldness
John the Baptist’s ministry was one of preparation—preparing the hearts of the people for the coming Messiah.
John called for repentance to prepare hearts for the Savior.
Isaiah 40:3 prophesied about a voice crying in the wilderness,
3 The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, Make straight in the desert a highway for our God.
This preparation was essential, and it required John to speak boldly, even when it was uncomfortable.
Boldness in Calling to Repentance:
John didn’t just preach nice things people wanted to hear.
He called people out on their sin and told them to repent—turn away from their old ways.
But John’s boldness wasn’t just about cleaning up their behavior; he was urging them to get their hearts right with God.
It was a message of deep, spiritual change that prepared them for the arrival of Jesus (Luke 3:8).
8 Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.
It wasn’t a popular message, but it was the necessary one to open the way for Christ.
And it’s not a popular message today...When was the last time you boldly shared the gospel, even when it wasn’t popular?
Boldness as Preparation for God’s Work
Boldness in proclamation isn’t just about saying hard things; it’s about preparing the ground for God to do the real work.
The Bible tells us that God’s Word never comes back void (Isaiah 55:11).
11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: It shall not return unto me void, But it shall accomplish that which I please, And it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
When we boldly share the truth, whether it’s calling people to repentance, pointing them to Christ, or standing firm in our faith, we’re setting the stage for God’s work in their lives.
Think of a farmer preparing the soil for planting. Before any seed is sown, the ground must be tilled, rocks removed, and weeds uprooted. The process can be harsh, but it is necessary for the seed to take root and grow.
Likewise, John’s bold words were like plowing the soil of the people’s hearts so that when Jesus came, the seed of God’s truth could take root and flourish.
Without this preparation, the people’s hearts would have been unready to receive the message of salvation.
As believers today, we are called to follow John’s example in boldly proclaiming the gospel and calling people to repentance.
Boldness in our faith and witness might not always be comfortable or popular, but it is essential for preparing hearts to hear and respond to Christ.
Whether through personal conversations, preaching, or standing firm in our beliefs, bold proclamation is a key way we partner with God in His redemptive work.
B. Truth in Love
B. Truth in Love
John’s message wasn’t just bold; it was also a message of love.
Even though he called out people’s sin and told them they needed to repent, it was because he loved them enough to tell them the truth.
His bold proclamation was rooted in a deep desire for people to experience the salvation and transformation that only Jesus could bring.
Bold Truth with Compassion
John didn’t sugarcoat the message.
But at the same time, the very fact that he spoke to them at all shows how much he cared about their eternal well-being.
Boldness in telling the truth isn’t about being harsh or abrasive; it’s about caring enough to say what needs to be said, even if it’s uncomfortable.
If we speak truth without love, we risk pushing people away rather than drawing them to Christ (Ephesians 4:15).
15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
Loving Correction
John wasn’t just calling out sin for the sake of judgment;
he was calling people to repentance because he knew what awaited them on the other side—God’s forgiveness and a transformed life.
When we share truth with others, it’s not because we want to be right or to make them feel bad; it’s because we want them to experience God’s best for them.
Love means caring more about a person’s heart than our own pride.
John’s confrontation with sin wasn’t just about pointing out flaws—it was an invitation to a better way, a way that leads to freedom.
Just like a doctor who has to give a difficult diagnosis. The news might be hard to hear, but the doctor shares it because it’s the only way the patient can get the help they need.
In the same way, sharing truth in love is about giving people the opportunity to experience the healing and transformation that only God can provide.
As we boldly proclaim God’s Word, we need to remember that truth and love always go hand in hand.
Whether we’re speaking to a friend about an area in their life where they’re struggling, addressing an issue in our family,
or even preaching the gospel to someone who doesn’t know Christ, our boldness should always be wrapped in compassion.
We may have to speak hard truths, but we do it because we care about people and want them to experience the life change that only Jesus can bring.
And when we share truth in love, we create an environment where God can work in hearts and lives.
While boldness is essential in proclaiming the truth, it’s also required when we face opposition for that proclamation.
And so we must also...
II. Persevere in Convictions
II. Persevere in Convictions
18 And many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people.
19 But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias his brother Philip’s wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done,
20 Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison.
John’s fearlessness in confronting Herod’s sin cost him dearly—he was imprisoned for standing for righteousness.
Yet, John’s courage illustrates the importance of standing firm in our convictions despite personal cost.
Just like John, we must have...
A. Integrity Over Comfort
A. Integrity Over Comfort
John the Baptist didn’t back down when it came to doing what was right, even when it was uncomfortable.
1 The wicked flee when no man pursueth: But the righteous are bold as a lion.
John stood firm in his convictions, even though it would have been much easier to avoid conflict or to sugarcoat the truth to keep people happy.
John’s courage was rooted in his integrity, and he valued standing up for God’s truth more than seeking his own comfort.
Choosing the Hard Right Over the Easy Wrong
It’s easy to take the path of least resistance.
But John shows us that true integrity means doing what’s right, even when it’s hard.
In fact, when we stand firm in our convictions, even when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular, we show that we value God’s truth more than personal comfort.
For John, calling out Herod for his sins wasn’t the easy choice—it put him in direct opposition to the powers that be, but he did it anyway because he knew it was the right thing to do.
Choosing right over easy means standing firm, even when the world opposes us.
Facing Opposition with Courage
Integrity often means facing opposition.
John didn’t shy away from calling out sin, even when it meant angering powerful people like Herod.
Similarly, when we stand by our Christian convictions, we’re often going to face criticism or even rejection.
But just like John, we need to hold fast to what’s right, not out of pride, but out of obedience to God.
The world will try to make us compromise, but when we choose integrity over comfort, we stand as a light in a dark world, pointing others to the truth of God’s Word.
But we also have to consider...
The Cost of Comfort
Choosing comfort can sometimes come at a great cost.
When we opt for comfort and silence, we may avoid temporary conflict, but we also miss out on the opportunity to influence others for Christ.
When we choose comfort over integrity, we lose the chance to make a lasting impact.
Following Jesus doesn’t always mean taking the easy road; sometimes, it’s about embracing discomfort for the sake of doing what’s right.
Think of a whistle blower in the workplace—someone who exposes wrongdoing even though it might cost them their job or reputation. It’s uncomfortable and risky, but their integrity drives them to do what’s right, no matter the personal cost.
In the same way, we’re called to stand firm in our faith and convictions, regardless of the opposition we face.
It’s not about seeking discomfort for discomfort’s sake, but about choosing what’s right over what’s easy, trusting that God will use our faithfulness for His glory.
Everyone is faced with moments where we have to choose between comfort and integrity.
Whether it’s at work, at school, or in our personal relationships, the world will often try to pressure us into compromising.
But as followers of Christ, we’re called to stand firm in our convictions, even when it’s uncomfortable.
When we choose integrity over comfort, we honor God, and we set an example for others to follow.
Just like John the Baptist, we are called to persevere in our convictions, trusting that God will use our faithfulness to accomplish His purposes.
No matter what we Persevere in our Convictions…this means...
B. Faithfulness Amid Opposition
B. Faithfulness Amid Opposition
John the Baptist’s faithfulness to God’s calling didn’t shield him from opposition—it actually invited it.
He faced rejection, criticism, and even imprisonment, but he remained faithful to God’s truth.
When we stand firm in our faith, we can expect opposition too, but John shows us that faithfulness is not about avoiding struggle;
it’s about staying true to what God has called us to, no matter the cost.
How can we stay faithful?
Expect Opposition
As believers, we’re not promised an easy path. In fact, Jesus warned us that the world would oppose us (John 15:20).
20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.
Just like John, we may face ridicule, rejection, or even persecution.
But faithfulness isn’t about avoiding those hard moments—it’s about staying committed to God’s Word, even when others push back.
Stay True to God’s Call
Understand this is much bigger than your discomfort or pain!
John didn’t water down the truth to make people feel comfortable.
He remained faithful to his mission, even when it wasn’t popular.
When we face opposition, we must stay focused on God’s call, trusting that our obedience matters more than the approval of others.
10 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.
The key is to stay faithful to God’s calling is trusting that our faithfulness will bear fruit, even if we don’t see it immediately.
Faithfulness amid opposition is a powerful witness to the world around us.
III. Pursue with Obedience
III. Pursue with Obedience
21 Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened,
22 And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.
Jesus’ baptism was an act of obedience, signifying the beginning of His public ministry.
His example teaches us that obedience is not only an act of submission but also a step toward divine empowerment.
A. Obedience Opens Doors
A. Obedience Opens Doors
When Jesus was baptized by John, it wasn’t just an act of fulfilling righteousness—it was a powerful demonstration of obedience to God’s will.
Jesus didn’t need to be baptized, but He did it to show His complete submission to His Father’s plan.
And because of His obedience, the heavens opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon Him like a dove.
This moment marked the start of His public ministry and opened the door for the powerful work He would do.
Obedience Leads to Divine Encounters
Jesus’ baptism was an act of submission, and in that moment of obedience, God the Father affirmed Him.
The voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
Obedience positions us to experience God’s presence in deeper ways.
8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
When we choose to follow God’s will, even when we don’t fully understand it, we create space for God to reveal Himself to us in ways we might not have anticipated.
God’s Approval Follows Obedience
Just as God publicly affirmed Jesus at His baptism, He’s ready to affirm us when we choose obedience.
Obedience isn’t about earning God’s love—it’s about aligning ourselves with His plan.
When we obey, we walk in the path God has set for us, and in that path, we experience His blessing and approval.
That doesn’t mean life will be easy, but it does mean we’re walking in the right direction.
13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:
14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
The path is narrow but it leads to life.
Obedience Opens the Way for God’s Work
Jesus’ baptism wasn’t just about His personal obedience;
it was a public declaration of His readiness to begin His ministry.
When we obey God’s call, we don’t just experience personal transformation;
we open the door for God to work through us to impact others.
Just like Jesus, our obedience can set the stage for God to use us in ways that extend His kingdom.
Our obedience to God isn’t just a duty—it’s a gateway to the abundant life He has for us.
When we step out in faith and obedience, we open ourselves up to new opportunities, deeper relationships with God, and the chance to be part of His redemptive work in the world.
No matter how small the act of obedience may seem, it’s the first step toward something greater that God is doing in us and through us.
B. Empowerment Through Submission
B. Empowerment Through Submission
Jesus’ baptism wasn’t just about obedience;
it was about submission to God’s will.
Through that submission, He was empowered by the Holy Spirit.
The moment He submitted to God’s plan, the Spirit descended upon Him like a dove.
This moment wasn’t just a symbol—it was the beginning of Jesus’ empowered ministry.
What do we learn from this?
Submission Invites God’s Power
When we submit to God’s will, we make room for His power to flow through us.
Jesus’ submission opened the door for the Holy Spirit to empower Him for the mission ahead.
Our submission to God’s plan can have the same effect—
when we surrender our own desires and plans, we make space for God to fill us with His Spirit and enable us to do His work.
But notice...
Submission Precedes Divine Enablement
It is in our surrender that we receive the strength, wisdom, and courage we need to step into God’s purposes.
Submission isn’t about weakness; it’s about recognizing that God’s plan is greater than our own.
When we submit, we allow God’s power to work in and through us.
It’s in our surrender that we find the strength to live boldly for Him and fulfill the calling He’s placed on our lives.
15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.
16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
Obedience to God’s commands invites the presence and power of the Holy Spirit.
A farmer plants seeds in obedience to natural laws, trusting the process will yield a harvest.
Likewise, spiritual obedience results in divine fruitfulness.
Are we willing to obey God in the "small steps" He calls us to, trusting that He will lead us to greater spiritual encounters and empowerment?
Conclusion
Conclusion
We’ve seen that boldness, perseverance, and obedience are crucial in our walk with God.
Just like the tightrope walker, the Christian walk requires both boldness and balance—boldness to proclaim the truth and conviction to persevere under pressure.
And just as the tightrope walker’s trust in the rope is unwavering, our trust in God's faithfulness is what holds us steady.
Each step of faith feels precarious, yet we walk with confidence, trusting God will sustain us.
Boldness in proclaiming His truth, perseverance in standing firm in our convictions, and obedience to His calling are essential in fulfilling the mission He has for us.
As we take these steps of faith, let us remember that God is always with us, empowering us for every challenge ahead.
Every step of faith is a step toward fulfilling His purpose for our lives, and when we walk in His strength, we will see His work unfold in our lives and in the lives of those around us.
Are we ready to boldly proclaim His truth, persevere in our convictions, and pursue obedience in all things?
God will empower us, and His work will be evident as we trust in His guidance and step forward in faith.
Will you proclaim Christ boldly in your words and actions this week?
Will you persevere in righteousness, even when the world pushes back?
Will you obey God’s call in faith, trusting Him for the outcome?
9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
