Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. The arrival of Jesus from Galilee at the Jordan for baptism creates the encounter that will define the beginning of Jesus' public ministry. He has not appeared since the infancy narrative; now he comes as an adult to the very river where thousands have been confessing their sins and undergoing the baptism of repentance. Jesus presents himself for the same baptism that sinners have been receiving — an act that will require theological explanation in verses 14–15. His voluntary identification with sinners at the Jordan is the first enactment of what Isaiah 53:12 describes: he was numbered with the transgressors. Before his ministry of teaching and healing begins, Jesus stands in line with the people who need repentance.

COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS

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