Jesus Begins His Ministry Jesus’ Baptism and Temptation

John’s Baptism Jews had long practiced ritual washings –Symbol of washing away the impurities of the world –Rededication of oneself to God –Ritual of purification –Some did this only occasionally –Special occasions (Wedding in Jn 2) –Some practiced it daily (Essenes at Qumran) –Some in rivers, streams – pools (mikvah)

Inside the Burnt House in Jerusalem

Stone jar from burnt house in Jerusalem

John’s baptism out in the desert reflects his challenge to the religious authorities –Called people out away from the religious corruption in Jerusalem and the Temple –Challenged people to repent and rededicate their lives to God –God would forgive them if they did these things

Jesus chose to associate himself with John for several reasons –He agreed with John’s emphasis on Purity Repentance Rededication to God’s ways –He also would challenge the religious leaders –John was challenging/working with all people, not just the powerful and wealthy

Jesus identified himself with all those in need of spiritual purification and repentance –These are the people he spent most of his time with Jesus was publicly acknowledging his acceptance of his role God had given him –He had come to realize his unique relationship with God

Jesus’ baptism was a demonstration of his willingness to accept God’s will for him –Mt. 3:15 – “to fulfill all righteousness” Righteousness has to do with being right with God; to do the will of God – to fulfill his purpose Jesus’ baptism was a commitment to God and the task reserved for him –This was a demonstration of his determination to carry out the will of the Father

The voice from heaven indicates the Father’s approval –References to OT passages Ps. 2:7 “I will tell of the decree of the Lord: He has said to me, ‘You are my son, today I have begotten you.” (originally referring to king on coronation day) Is. 42:1 “Behold my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my Spirit upon him, he will bring forth justice to the nations.” The dove is a symbol of Jesus’ being anointed with the Spirit from God.

Jesus’ Temptation Immediately after the baptism, Jesus spent time in solitude reflecting on his ministry ahead –Prayer, fasting, reflection – preparation Reflecting on his commitment, he is confronted with other alternatives –“Easier” – “More exciting” – More “self-satisfying” –Satan is always ready to offer “other, more appealing ways”

The quality of Jesus’ commitment is being tested –Each time Satan confronts him – “If you are the son of God.” –Jesus has been acknowledged as God’s son – now that is being tested – just how good of a son is he?

Will he use his abilities in selfish ways? –To promote himself –To satisfy his own needs –To show the world he can “rule the world” The way he had chosen would be difficult; the way being offered to him would be much easier – and attract more followers That’s what was so appealing; that’s why it was a temptation

Three temptations –Turn stones to bread Now for himself; later he could feed all the hungry –Jump off the Temple Now – prove to himself that God really will protect him; later to prove to the world and gain a following –Control the nations This would be immediate – have the world now; isn’t that what Jesus wanted? Did it really belong to Satan?

A.M. Hunter presents these as messianic temptations –Economic messiah –Miracle-working messiah –Political messiah

Why were these temptations to Jesus? In what ways was Jesus vulnerable? How did he know these would tempt Jesus? How well did Satan know Jesus?

Significance of the temptations –Each time he reflects on scripture – Israel in the wilderness The son (Israel) that did not do so well when tested –They help him develop his priorities for his ministry Obedience to the will of God Trust in God that asks no proof Dedicated allegiance which excludes all lesser claims

Satan was not finished with him –Luke 4:13 “and when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from him until an opportune time.” Jesus had made a commitment and set his priorities

For us it is much the same Baptism is about making a commitment Temptation is about remaining true to that commitment and establishing our priorities in life