Introduction:
- Defining moments are moments that may have changed the course of our lives or helped shape our identity. Examples include knowing our career path, being accepted or rejected, finding a spouse, solving a difficult problem, and experiencing a major life crisis.
- These moments can be both positive (joy, moments of sadness) and negative (tragedy).
Section 1: Jesus' Baptism
- Jesus' baptism was a defining moment in his life, marking the beginning of his ministry.
- The moment of Jesus' baptism (Spirit descending as a dove, voice affirming Jesus' identity) sent Jesus on his way and led to the moment of the voice from heaven, the affirmation and the Spirit driving Jesus to the wilderness.
- There was a brief moment of hesitation and John initially objected to baptizing Jesus, but Jesus insisted on continuing, saying it was proper for them to fulfill all righteousness.
- Jesus chose to be baptized, even though he was sinless, as a way of submitting to and discovering God's will and following his plan. It was a public declaration of his identity and commitment to fulfilling God's purpose for his life.
- This choice to follow God's will, even though it would lead Jesus down a difficult path, demonstrates his trust in God's plan and his faith in action.
Section 2: The Significance of Baptism
- For people to be baptized by John the Baptist at the Jordan river was a sort of protest, symbolizing a journey back to the promised land and a rejection of Rome.
- Many of Jesus' actions in the New Testament can be seen as re-enactments of Old Testament events and moments.
- The Pharisees and Sadducees were already suspicious of Jesus and his supposed messiahship, and his baptism only heightened their suspicions.
- However, Jesus' baptism also demonstrated his solidarity with humanity and his willingness to bear the weight of their sin.
Conclusion:
- Defining moments can shape our identity and direction in life.
- Jesus' baptism was a defining moment for him, as he chose to submit to and follow God's will, even though it would lead him down a difficult path.
- Understanding the significance of baptism helps us to understand this moment and its importance in Jesus' life and ministry.
