1 00:00:00,350 --> 00:00:04,120 Speaker 1: Behold, a voice out of the heavens said, This is 2 00:00:04,200 --> 00:00:09,159 Speaker 1: my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased. Matthew 3 00:00:09,160 --> 00:00:15,520 Speaker 1: 3.17 Dear Lord, we are struck with awe and wonder 4 00:00:16,480 --> 00:00:21,380 Speaker 1: that you would choose us to redeem, love, and empower. 5 00:00:23,840 --> 00:00:27,220 Speaker 1: Through you we have been given the approval of the Father, 6 00:00:28,580 --> 00:00:33,029 Speaker 1: something we never would have earned on our own. Give 7 00:00:33,090 --> 00:00:39,320 Speaker 1: us confidence in our identity. Make us unwavering in our resolve. 8 00:00:40,979 --> 00:00:45,340 Speaker 1: We are children of God, adopted and cherished by the 9 00:00:45,400 --> 00:00:52,610 Speaker 1: Creator of the universe. These truths are wonderful and humbling. 10 00:00:54,590 --> 00:00:58,330 Speaker 1: Foster in us a deep understanding of our purpose and calling. 11 00:00:58,970 --> 00:01:03,330 Speaker 1: in light of these truths. Give us strength to carry 12 00:01:03,450 --> 00:01:08,369 Speaker 1: out Your will and wisdom to discern Your words from ours. 13 00:01:10,410 --> 00:01:14,509 Speaker 1: At the end of it all, we're grateful. Grateful that 14 00:01:14,569 --> 00:01:19,020 Speaker 1: You would send Your Son to die for us. Grateful 15 00:01:19,060 --> 00:01:23,020 Speaker 1: that we can be called Your children. Grateful that this 16 00:01:23,140 --> 00:01:28,910 Speaker 1: life isn't dull or meaningless, but filled with color, and purpose. 17 00:01:30,770 --> 00:01:37,030 Speaker 1: In Jesus' name, amen. Thank you for praying with me today. 18 00:01:37,890 --> 00:01:42,230 Speaker 1: You're listening to the Jesus Podcast. Remain here for a 19 00:01:42,270 --> 00:01:48,410 Speaker 1: new series on Jesus the Disruptor. Gospel stories where Jesus 20 00:01:48,530 --> 00:01:54,530 Speaker 1: disrupted the status quo to establish something greater. If you 21 00:01:54,570 --> 00:01:57,730 Speaker 1: aren't yet following the podcast, go ahead and do so. 22 00:01:58,340 --> 00:02:03,660 Speaker 1: on whatever platform you're listening to. The air was frigid 23 00:02:04,400 --> 00:02:07,720 Speaker 1: as John paced back and forth along the Jordan River. 24 00:02:09,240 --> 00:02:11,880 Speaker 1: He could barely see a few feet in front of him, 25 00:02:12,880 --> 00:02:16,500 Speaker 1: though he found solace in the gentle sounds of the 26 00:02:16,560 --> 00:02:22,540 Speaker 1: water nearby. The sun had yet to rise over the hills, 27 00:02:24,070 --> 00:02:29,170 Speaker 1: but despite a sleeping world around him, John was wide 28 00:02:29,210 --> 00:02:35,550 Speaker 1: awake with vivid thoughts of the day ahead. His warm 29 00:02:35,650 --> 00:02:39,340 Speaker 1: breath cast small wisps in front of him as his 30 00:02:39,400 --> 00:02:45,420 Speaker 1: chest rose and fell slowly. His calm demeanor hid his 31 00:02:45,500 --> 00:02:51,100 Speaker 1: racing heart and swirling thoughts. Over the past few weeks, 32 00:02:52,090 --> 00:02:56,130 Speaker 1: John's life as a hermit had taken a sharp turn. 33 00:02:56,919 --> 00:03:00,450 Speaker 1: as he began to prepare the way for the Messiah, 34 00:03:01,490 --> 00:03:08,010 Speaker 1: the man he had always called Cousin. For as long 35 00:03:08,050 --> 00:03:11,680 Speaker 1: as he could remember, John believed the words of his mother, 36 00:03:12,600 --> 00:03:17,280 Speaker 1: telling him that Jesus was the Anointed One. But now 37 00:03:17,360 --> 00:03:20,640 Speaker 1: that that day grew closer for Jesus to enter the 38 00:03:20,680 --> 00:03:25,590 Speaker 1: public eye, he was having difficulty understanding connecting the idea 39 00:03:25,730 --> 00:03:30,060 Speaker 1: of the boy from his childhood, being the Lamb of God, 40 00:03:30,760 --> 00:03:35,500 Speaker 1: who would take away the sins of the world. But 41 00:03:35,560 --> 00:03:39,580 Speaker 1: this was only a small obstacle in John's mind, a 42 00:03:39,640 --> 00:03:46,510 Speaker 1: simple reframing of his perspective and preconceived notions. His mother 43 00:03:46,610 --> 00:03:50,230 Speaker 1: had often recited the words of John's purpose to proclaim 44 00:03:50,290 --> 00:03:54,660 Speaker 1: to the world that the Messiah had come. The promise 45 00:03:54,720 --> 00:03:59,320 Speaker 1: spoken to his father by the angel Gabriel now resonated 46 00:03:59,640 --> 00:04:04,830 Speaker 1: in John's heart and mind. As a child, he would 47 00:04:04,870 --> 00:04:08,610 Speaker 1: sit with Jesus and dream of the day that they 48 00:04:08,670 --> 00:04:14,809 Speaker 1: would get to fulfill their purpose. And now, that time 49 00:04:14,970 --> 00:04:22,179 Speaker 1: had finally come. And John could hardly believe it. John 50 00:04:22,220 --> 00:04:25,620 Speaker 1: dipped his hand in a nearby stream and splashed it 51 00:04:25,700 --> 00:04:30,540 Speaker 1: onto his face. The chilled evening air was already beginning 52 00:04:30,580 --> 00:04:33,850 Speaker 1: to warm as dawn broke over the hills. 53 00:04:34,430 --> 00:04:38,229 Speaker 2: Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the universe, 54 00:04:38,990 --> 00:04:42,490 Speaker 2: who has carried me from my youth. You have sustained 55 00:04:42,529 --> 00:04:47,020 Speaker 2: me in the wilderness. You have made my path straight 56 00:04:48,240 --> 00:04:51,710 Speaker 2: and set my heart on a firm foundation. Give me 57 00:04:51,800 --> 00:04:54,719 Speaker 2: strength now to fulfill the calling you have placed on 58 00:04:54,740 --> 00:04:55,140 Speaker 2: my life. 59 00:04:56,020 --> 00:05:00,760 Speaker 1: Though silence filled the black landscape, John sensed the Spirit's 60 00:05:00,880 --> 00:05:08,490 Speaker 1: overwhelming presence surrounding him. Centuries ago, the prophet Isaiah wrote 61 00:05:08,529 --> 00:05:13,010 Speaker 1: the words, A voice of one calling in the wilderness. 62 00:05:13,930 --> 00:05:18,359 Speaker 1: Prepare the way of the Lord. Make straight paths for him. 63 00:05:20,180 --> 00:05:24,890 Speaker 1: And now, on a quiet morning in Galilee, the man 64 00:05:24,950 --> 00:05:29,549 Speaker 1: of whom the prophet spoke was fulfilling those very words. 65 00:05:31,529 --> 00:05:36,060 Speaker 1: Born in Judea in a respected Jewish family and raised 66 00:05:36,120 --> 00:05:41,040 Speaker 1: with a vigorous love for the Lord, John, often called 67 00:05:41,180 --> 00:05:45,680 Speaker 1: the Baptizer, spent his adult years in the tranquil solitude 68 00:05:46,000 --> 00:05:49,740 Speaker 1: of the wilderness. He had made his home in the 69 00:05:49,779 --> 00:05:54,810 Speaker 1: heart of God's glorious creation. The heavens above his roof. 70 00:05:56,170 --> 00:05:59,270 Speaker 1: He had chosen to clothe himself in a simple garment 71 00:05:59,310 --> 00:06:03,070 Speaker 1: of camel fur, fastened around his waist with a belt. 72 00:06:04,610 --> 00:06:08,630 Speaker 1: His hair grew in long, ragged tufts. And when he 73 00:06:08,670 --> 00:06:12,630 Speaker 1: wasn't praying or preaching, he would make his meals of 74 00:06:12,750 --> 00:06:19,930 Speaker 1: locust and wild honey. An unsuspecting onlooker might have mistakenly 75 00:06:19,990 --> 00:06:25,150 Speaker 1: assumed his lifestyle was the result of a few loose marvels. 76 00:06:26,870 --> 00:06:31,929 Speaker 1: But all of these moves were calculated for the man 77 00:06:32,070 --> 00:06:36,270 Speaker 1: who had dedicated himself to the Lord under the Nazarite vow. 78 00:06:37,920 --> 00:06:43,740 Speaker 1: Each decision was a deliberate one, removing any unnecessary worries 79 00:06:43,839 --> 00:06:47,980 Speaker 1: from his life. like the mending of clothes or preparation 80 00:06:48,000 --> 00:06:54,310 Speaker 1: of meals, giving his full attention to serving the Lord. 81 00:07:01,310 --> 00:07:04,600 Speaker 3: Are you in pain after walking, running, or even just standing? 82 00:07:05,080 --> 00:07:08,640 Speaker 3: It's not your feet. It's your shoes. This summer, switch 83 00:07:08,660 --> 00:07:13,520 Speaker 3: to G-Defy shoes with patented VersoShock technology. which aligns your body, 84 00:07:13,680 --> 00:07:20,140 Speaker 3: provides superior shock absorption, and trampoline-like energy return. G-Defy offers 85 00:07:20,240 --> 00:07:24,520 Speaker 3: soles and styles for any activity, plus two free orthotics. 86 00:07:25,120 --> 00:07:28,020 Speaker 3: Whether you're an athlete, a busy parent, or always on 87 00:07:28,040 --> 00:07:32,240 Speaker 3: the go, G-Defy shoes deliver the comfort and versatility your 88 00:07:32,260 --> 00:07:36,810 Speaker 3: feet crave. Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to unparalleled 89 00:07:36,870 --> 00:07:42,250 Speaker 3: support this summer. Enjoy a special summer offer. Visit GDefy.com 90 00:07:42,590 --> 00:07:45,430 Speaker 3: and get $ 20 off your order of $ 100 or more 91 00:07:45,830 --> 00:07:50,530 Speaker 3: with code PRAY. Experience the miracle of ultimate comfort with 92 00:07:50,590 --> 00:07:57,560 Speaker 3: GDefy shoes. Visit GDefy.com today. 93 00:08:01,040 --> 00:08:05,280 Speaker 4: Jesus was sinless, but identified with us in every way. 94 00:08:06,150 --> 00:08:09,800 Speaker 4: We can walk with God confidently knowing that He relates 95 00:08:09,880 --> 00:08:12,900 Speaker 4: to us in our struggles and models what it means 96 00:08:12,980 --> 00:08:17,000 Speaker 4: to repent and move forward. This is the Jesus Podcast. 97 00:08:17,540 --> 00:08:21,120 Speaker 4: I'm Ethan with Pray.com. Join us as we begin a 98 00:08:21,400 --> 00:08:25,660 Speaker 4: new mini-series on Jesus disrupting the status quo and showing 99 00:08:25,740 --> 00:08:30,180 Speaker 4: us a way to live. This series showcases Jesus' teachings 100 00:08:30,340 --> 00:08:33,600 Speaker 4: and passions, and we will learn about God's heart for 101 00:08:33,700 --> 00:08:37,350 Speaker 4: people and for His kingdom. Today, we're going to dive 102 00:08:37,400 --> 00:08:40,390 Speaker 4: into the waters of the Jordan River and explore the 103 00:08:40,450 --> 00:08:44,270 Speaker 4: moment when Jesus himself was baptized by John the Baptist. 104 00:08:44,990 --> 00:08:48,590 Speaker 4: This event, recorded in Matthew chapter 3, is not just 105 00:08:48,670 --> 00:08:52,060 Speaker 4: a simple dip in the water. It's a profound moment 106 00:08:52,460 --> 00:08:55,200 Speaker 4: packed with meaning and relevance for us today. 107 00:08:59,200 --> 00:09:03,020 Speaker 1: In what had become a usual day for John, lines 108 00:09:03,070 --> 00:09:05,650 Speaker 1: had begun to form along the banks of the Jordan River. 109 00:09:07,360 --> 00:09:11,479 Speaker 1: Despite the numbers, the people waited with bated breath in anticipation. 110 00:09:12,540 --> 00:09:19,380 Speaker 1: Everyone wondered what the baptizer would preach today. John greeted them, 111 00:09:20,020 --> 00:09:24,780 Speaker 1: then leapt into the water. The camel fur soaked through, 112 00:09:24,980 --> 00:09:30,340 Speaker 1: leaving a stench that never bothered John. The crowd was 113 00:09:30,460 --> 00:09:35,260 Speaker 1: too enthralled with his words to notice either. John's voice 114 00:09:35,280 --> 00:09:39,440 Speaker 1: had a way of resonating. It pulsed with the tides 115 00:09:39,500 --> 00:09:43,080 Speaker 1: of the river, flowing out of his mouth into the 116 00:09:43,179 --> 00:09:44,380 Speaker 1: hearts of people. 117 00:09:44,940 --> 00:09:49,590 Speaker 5: For generations, God's people have waited in faith for redemption. 118 00:09:50,170 --> 00:09:53,929 Speaker 5: The heaviness of sin has weighed upon many hearts. The 119 00:09:53,950 --> 00:09:59,530 Speaker 5: hands of our oppressors have grown strong. But our Lord 120 00:09:59,890 --> 00:10:02,020 Speaker 5: has always proven himself stronger. 121 00:10:02,520 --> 00:10:06,240 Speaker 6: Praise Adonai! Blessed are you, O Lord! 122 00:10:06,260 --> 00:10:11,280 Speaker 5: Yes, and no closer has our day of deliverance come 123 00:10:11,480 --> 00:10:12,400 Speaker 5: than this day. 124 00:10:13,110 --> 00:10:15,430 Speaker 7: Our Messiah is coming! 125 00:10:16,070 --> 00:10:20,800 Speaker 1: More cheers rang from the boisterous gathering. Though John's words 126 00:10:21,140 --> 00:10:26,059 Speaker 1: were inspiring, something else was stirring within them, something much 127 00:10:26,120 --> 00:10:28,240 Speaker 1: more profound than a good speech. 128 00:10:28,860 --> 00:10:32,880 Speaker 5: For this very reason, you must prepare your hearts to 129 00:10:32,920 --> 00:10:36,320 Speaker 5: receive him, for he is coming to establish his kingdom 130 00:10:36,620 --> 00:10:39,980 Speaker 5: and take the throne of David. I say to you 131 00:10:40,059 --> 00:10:44,500 Speaker 5: this day, repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near. 132 00:10:45,160 --> 00:10:49,080 Speaker 1: As John finished these words, he noticed a jostling amongst 133 00:10:49,140 --> 00:10:53,790 Speaker 1: the people Pushing their way through the throngs, he saw 134 00:10:53,910 --> 00:10:58,570 Speaker 1: a group of men dressed in fine robes, the unmistakable 135 00:10:58,630 --> 00:11:03,710 Speaker 1: garments of the Pharisees and Sadducees. They too had come 136 00:11:03,809 --> 00:11:07,640 Speaker 1: to listen to the baptizer, though their stance on his 137 00:11:07,679 --> 00:11:13,640 Speaker 1: teachings was questionable at best. John gave them ample time 138 00:11:13,720 --> 00:11:16,520 Speaker 1: to push through so that they might stand in the 139 00:11:16,679 --> 00:11:21,090 Speaker 1: front of the crowd for all to see. before speaking again, 140 00:11:22,309 --> 00:11:28,310 Speaker 1: this time directing his words at them. This was the 141 00:11:28,429 --> 00:11:32,449 Speaker 1: perfect platform for John to address the crowds from a 142 00:11:32,570 --> 00:11:33,790 Speaker 1: different point of view. 143 00:11:34,470 --> 00:11:38,510 Speaker 5: You there, brood of vipers, making your way through the 144 00:11:38,550 --> 00:11:43,340 Speaker 5: people like slithering snakes! The judgment of our Lord is coming, 145 00:11:43,840 --> 00:11:46,319 Speaker 5: and who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? 146 00:11:46,920 --> 00:11:51,160 Speaker 5: You spend your days following customs, adding to the law 147 00:11:51,380 --> 00:11:55,200 Speaker 5: that you might appear righteous before all of Israel. But 148 00:11:55,240 --> 00:11:59,330 Speaker 5: hear this, the Lord desires that you produce fruit in 149 00:11:59,429 --> 00:12:00,550 Speaker 5: keeping with repentance. 150 00:12:01,170 --> 00:12:05,290 Speaker 1: Scowls formed on their faces as an overflow of anger 151 00:12:05,490 --> 00:12:09,460 Speaker 1: quickly took root in their hearts. It was evident that 152 00:12:09,480 --> 00:12:13,490 Speaker 1: this attack struck a chord with the religious leaders. But 153 00:12:13,540 --> 00:12:18,270 Speaker 1: before they could utter a rebuttal, the baptizer carried on. 154 00:12:18,910 --> 00:12:19,770 Speaker 7: I know your ways. 155 00:12:19,790 --> 00:12:23,770 Speaker 5: You don't fool me, and you certainly don't fool the Lord. 156 00:12:23,790 --> 00:12:27,189 Speaker 5: Do not think you can say to yourselves, we have 157 00:12:27,309 --> 00:12:30,130 Speaker 5: Abraham as our father, as though that alone is the 158 00:12:30,230 --> 00:12:33,650 Speaker 5: key to your salvation. I tell you that God can 159 00:12:33,750 --> 00:12:36,859 Speaker 5: breathe his spirit into these lifeless stones and raise up 160 00:12:37,160 --> 00:12:38,480 Speaker 5: new children for Abraham. 161 00:12:39,170 --> 00:12:43,610 Speaker 1: John was playing a dangerous game. These men held greater 162 00:12:43,670 --> 00:12:48,430 Speaker 1: authority over the people of Israel, including himself. But his 163 00:12:48,570 --> 00:12:54,290 Speaker 1: faith rose like a passionate flame, burning out any fear 164 00:12:54,630 --> 00:12:55,030 Speaker 1: within him. 165 00:12:55,730 --> 00:12:58,189 Speaker 7: The axe is already at the root of the trees, 166 00:12:58,530 --> 00:12:59,610 Speaker 7: and every tree that. 167 00:12:59,570 --> 00:13:03,410 Speaker 5: Does not produce good fruit will be cut down and 168 00:13:03,510 --> 00:13:04,719 Speaker 5: thrown into the fire. 169 00:13:05,220 --> 00:13:08,000 Speaker 1: There was an audible gasp from the people as they 170 00:13:08,059 --> 00:13:12,179 Speaker 1: looked at one another hoping to gain a deeper understanding 171 00:13:12,220 --> 00:13:17,380 Speaker 1: of John's threatening metaphor. They wondered aloud if any of 172 00:13:17,440 --> 00:13:20,180 Speaker 1: them were at risk of being one of these trees 173 00:13:20,520 --> 00:13:21,660 Speaker 1: thrown into the fire. 174 00:13:22,200 --> 00:13:24,260 Speaker 7: We want to produce good fruit for the Lord. 175 00:13:24,820 --> 00:13:27,370 Speaker 2: Baptizer, please tell us, what should we do? 176 00:13:28,000 --> 00:13:30,930 Speaker 5: Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one 177 00:13:30,970 --> 00:13:34,550 Speaker 5: who has none. And anyone who has food should do 178 00:13:34,590 --> 00:13:35,030 Speaker 5: the same. 179 00:13:35,610 --> 00:13:39,500 Speaker 1: Some of those who were tax collectors chimed in. knowing 180 00:13:39,530 --> 00:13:42,520 Speaker 1: of their unique predicament among the people of Israel. 181 00:13:43,080 --> 00:13:47,699 Speaker 8: Teacher, we know we've wronged God's people. As you have 182 00:13:47,760 --> 00:13:53,140 Speaker 8: called us to repentance, so we shall repent. Please, tell 183 00:13:53,200 --> 00:13:54,380 Speaker 8: us what we need to do. 184 00:13:54,880 --> 00:13:57,940 Speaker 5: Though you have committed yourself to the work of Caesar, 185 00:13:58,580 --> 00:14:02,360 Speaker 5: the Lord has not forgotten you. Honor the Lord and 186 00:14:02,400 --> 00:14:07,020 Speaker 5: remain honest men. When you stand in your booths, do 187 00:14:07,040 --> 00:14:08,680 Speaker 5: not collect any more than you must. 188 00:14:09,230 --> 00:14:12,200 Speaker 1: A ways off from the tax collectors, a group of 189 00:14:12,280 --> 00:14:13,839 Speaker 1: soldiers began to speak. 190 00:14:14,380 --> 00:14:15,460 Speaker 6: And what of us? 191 00:14:16,160 --> 00:14:17,819 Speaker 8: We know how people view us. 192 00:14:18,540 --> 00:14:19,380 Speaker 4: What should we do? 193 00:14:19,960 --> 00:14:23,470 Speaker 5: Again, I say to you, honor the Lord in all 194 00:14:23,510 --> 00:14:27,550 Speaker 5: you do. Don't escort money from the people. Don't accuse 195 00:14:27,590 --> 00:14:31,890 Speaker 5: people falsely. You hold authority over many people, but your 196 00:14:31,980 --> 00:14:36,200 Speaker 5: hearts remain unsatisfied. Don't seek out the treasures of this world, 197 00:14:36,700 --> 00:14:39,280 Speaker 5: but be content with your pay and what the Lord 198 00:14:39,340 --> 00:14:40,380 Speaker 5: has provided you with. 199 00:14:40,960 --> 00:14:46,150 Speaker 1: The people took in John's responses without question, hungry for 200 00:14:46,170 --> 00:14:50,050 Speaker 1: the truth and in awe of one who would give 201 00:14:50,090 --> 00:14:55,150 Speaker 1: it to them with such honesty and directness. But John 202 00:14:55,290 --> 00:14:57,550 Speaker 1: could overhear the murmurings that resulted. 203 00:14:58,260 --> 00:15:00,640 Speaker 6: Perhaps this is he of whom the scriptures foretold. 204 00:15:01,060 --> 00:15:04,950 Speaker 5: Could it be possible that John the Baptizer is the Messiah? 205 00:15:05,470 --> 00:15:08,930 Speaker 1: In hearing their words, he turned his attention back towards 206 00:15:09,010 --> 00:15:12,250 Speaker 1: the whole of the gathering and steadied his tone. 207 00:15:12,610 --> 00:15:14,650 Speaker 5: You have come to me in the wilderness to be 208 00:15:14,690 --> 00:15:19,490 Speaker 5: made clean, and gladly I baptize you with water as 209 00:15:19,530 --> 00:15:24,220 Speaker 5: an act of repentance. But after me comes one who 210 00:15:24,300 --> 00:15:26,210 Speaker 5: is far more powerful than I. 211 00:15:27,090 --> 00:15:30,160 Speaker 7: One whose sandals I am not even worthy to carry. 212 00:15:30,540 --> 00:15:34,420 Speaker 1: The people pressed in, eager to soak in every word 213 00:15:34,720 --> 00:15:35,880 Speaker 1: that flowed from John. 214 00:15:36,300 --> 00:15:41,120 Speaker 7: Yes, I have baptized you with these very waters, but. 215 00:15:41,000 --> 00:15:45,850 Speaker 5: He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. 216 00:15:46,750 --> 00:15:50,250 Speaker 5: The harvest time is drawing near, and his winnowing fork 217 00:15:50,310 --> 00:15:53,770 Speaker 5: is in his hand. He will clear his threshing floor, 218 00:15:53,990 --> 00:15:57,130 Speaker 5: gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the 219 00:15:57,170 --> 00:15:59,050 Speaker 5: chaff with unquenchable fire. 220 00:15:59,570 --> 00:16:03,770 Speaker 1: At these final words, his eyes shifted back towards the 221 00:16:03,810 --> 00:16:09,240 Speaker 1: religious leaders. With looks of disgust upon their faces, they 222 00:16:09,270 --> 00:16:14,580 Speaker 1: turned and disappeared back into the crowds. Over the coming days, 223 00:16:14,660 --> 00:16:19,060 Speaker 1: word of John's address to the Pharisees and Sadducees spread. 224 00:16:18,840 --> 00:16:19,420 Speaker 4: Through the region. 225 00:16:20,130 --> 00:16:26,780 Speaker 1: With the swiftness of a rushing wind. As the sun 226 00:16:26,860 --> 00:16:31,040 Speaker 1: shone overhead, Jesus walked along the edge of the Jordan 227 00:16:31,080 --> 00:16:35,320 Speaker 1: River with John, finding shade under the trees that reached 228 00:16:35,360 --> 00:16:40,230 Speaker 1: their long arms over the water. Jesus had made his 229 00:16:40,310 --> 00:16:42,950 Speaker 1: way from Galilee for a special visit. 230 00:16:43,530 --> 00:16:45,770 Speaker 5: Tell me, how is your Ema? 231 00:16:46,250 --> 00:16:47,130 Speaker 9: She's quite well. 232 00:16:48,010 --> 00:16:50,979 Speaker 6: Of course, she sends her love. She would have sent 233 00:16:51,020 --> 00:16:53,800 Speaker 6: some food too, but she couldn't find any recipes for locusts. 234 00:16:55,880 --> 00:16:58,270 Speaker 7: I can't say I've found any to send back to 235 00:16:58,290 --> 00:16:58,790 Speaker 7: her either. 236 00:16:59,850 --> 00:17:02,530 Speaker 5: Tell me again, to what do I owe the pleasure 237 00:17:02,570 --> 00:17:03,310 Speaker 5: of your company? 238 00:17:03,710 --> 00:17:07,790 Speaker 6: Today is the day, cousin. The moment we've been waiting for. 239 00:17:08,270 --> 00:17:09,430 Speaker 5: And what moment is that? 240 00:17:09,800 --> 00:17:11,000 Speaker 6: My baptism, of course. 241 00:17:11,500 --> 00:17:14,180 Speaker 5: I'm sorry, your baptism? 242 00:17:14,619 --> 00:17:17,440 Speaker 9: I've heard you've started quite the movement out here, and 243 00:17:17,480 --> 00:17:20,220 Speaker 9: I know you're very busy. But I figured you could 244 00:17:20,240 --> 00:17:23,770 Speaker 9: squeeze me in as a family favor. Don't worry, I 245 00:17:23,810 --> 00:17:26,449 Speaker 9: won't tell anyone that you allowed me to cut the lines. 246 00:17:26,910 --> 00:17:30,510 Speaker 1: With a wink, Jesus gave John a gentle nudge on 247 00:17:30,550 --> 00:17:35,890 Speaker 1: his shoulder. But John didn't return the gesture. He thought 248 00:17:35,950 --> 00:17:40,730 Speaker 1: back to his statement to the Pharisees and Sadducees. Though 249 00:17:40,790 --> 00:17:43,550 Speaker 1: it was true that many were coming to John to 250 00:17:43,590 --> 00:17:48,410 Speaker 1: be baptized, how could he be worthy enough? to baptize 251 00:17:48,750 --> 00:17:49,409 Speaker 1: the Messiah. 252 00:17:50,350 --> 00:17:53,129 Speaker 5: I will admit that I have baptized more people than 253 00:17:53,190 --> 00:17:56,510 Speaker 5: I can count. But with all due respect, I think 254 00:17:56,770 --> 00:18:00,580 Speaker 5: you have it backwards. I need to be baptized by you. 255 00:18:01,460 --> 00:18:02,940 Speaker 5: But here you are coming to me? 256 00:18:03,460 --> 00:18:06,020 Speaker 9: You seem to have no problem dunking my head under 257 00:18:06,119 --> 00:18:09,000 Speaker 9: water down at the pools in Jerusalem at Passover when. 258 00:18:08,920 --> 00:18:09,600 Speaker 4: We were boys. 259 00:18:10,260 --> 00:18:14,870 Speaker 1: Again, Jesus' humor was met with a nervous uncertainty. But 260 00:18:14,960 --> 00:18:20,260 Speaker 1: sensing John's uneasiness... Jesus gently placed his hands on John's 261 00:18:20,300 --> 00:18:25,260 Speaker 1: shoulders and looked him in the eyes. John could feel 262 00:18:25,320 --> 00:18:28,730 Speaker 1: his heart lighten as gentleness radiated from. 263 00:18:28,650 --> 00:18:29,310 Speaker 4: Jesus' face. 264 00:18:30,050 --> 00:18:33,869 Speaker 6: My dear John, you've been faithful to my father. You 265 00:18:33,890 --> 00:18:38,689 Speaker 6: have chosen a life of humility and lowliness. Let it 266 00:18:38,820 --> 00:18:41,699 Speaker 6: be so that you baptize me now. It is the 267 00:18:41,820 --> 00:18:45,679 Speaker 6: proper thing for us to do to fulfill all righteousness. 268 00:18:46,450 --> 00:18:51,240 Speaker 1: Trust me, cousin, John thought for a moment, shifting his 269 00:18:51,320 --> 00:18:55,739 Speaker 1: bare feet in the dirt underfoot. He knew that he 270 00:18:55,780 --> 00:18:59,659 Speaker 1: had no reason not to trust Jesus. This wasn't a 271 00:18:59,740 --> 00:19:03,540 Speaker 1: matter of questioning if Jesus was the Messiah. He had 272 00:19:03,619 --> 00:19:07,900 Speaker 1: always known that. But could preparing the way for him 273 00:19:08,240 --> 00:19:13,479 Speaker 1: really mean baptizing him, along with all the other sinners? 274 00:19:14,940 --> 00:19:19,630 Speaker 1: John took a steady breath before slowly exhaling. He desperately 275 00:19:19,790 --> 00:19:23,270 Speaker 1: wanted to fight the words of Jesus as an act 276 00:19:23,310 --> 00:19:28,740 Speaker 1: of humility. But he knew the reality was that in 277 00:19:28,840 --> 00:19:32,679 Speaker 1: doing so, he would only be feeding into his pride, 278 00:19:33,920 --> 00:19:38,310 Speaker 1: allowing himself to believe that his ideas were more honoring 279 00:19:38,369 --> 00:19:40,290 Speaker 1: to the Lord than the Messiah's. 280 00:19:41,320 --> 00:19:45,020 Speaker 5: I cannot say that it still isn't a little difficult 281 00:19:45,060 --> 00:19:50,150 Speaker 5: for me to understand, but I will trust you if today... 282 00:19:50,220 --> 00:19:55,620 Speaker 5: is indeed the day of your baptism, well, I would 283 00:19:55,640 --> 00:19:57,189 Speaker 5: be honored to be the one to do it. 284 00:19:58,040 --> 00:20:01,930 Speaker 1: Jesus smiled, looking at the man covered in camel fur 285 00:20:02,010 --> 00:20:05,590 Speaker 1: before him. He couldn't help but see the young boy 286 00:20:05,770 --> 00:20:11,180 Speaker 1: he had known many years ago. Jesus knew that even 287 00:20:11,220 --> 00:20:14,300 Speaker 1: the people closest to him would have much to learn 288 00:20:14,480 --> 00:20:18,680 Speaker 1: during his time on earth. The pair made their way 289 00:20:18,780 --> 00:20:21,200 Speaker 1: out of the brush to be greeted by the sun 290 00:20:21,440 --> 00:20:25,770 Speaker 1: once again. They could see the usual formation of people 291 00:20:26,090 --> 00:20:30,770 Speaker 1: a few yards away. Each morning they would gather with 292 00:20:30,869 --> 00:20:35,310 Speaker 1: eagerness to hear from the baptizer before stepping into the 293 00:20:35,350 --> 00:20:41,720 Speaker 1: river's cool waters to be baptized in repentance. On most days, 294 00:20:41,800 --> 00:20:47,859 Speaker 1: John would share this excitement. But today, his emotions felt 295 00:20:48,000 --> 00:20:53,669 Speaker 1: intermingled as nerves collided with anticipation of this monumental moment. 296 00:20:55,190 --> 00:20:59,429 Speaker 1: John could feel his heart rate elevating. Small drops of 297 00:20:59,530 --> 00:21:04,510 Speaker 1: sweat formed on his brow from the heat. John made 298 00:21:04,550 --> 00:21:08,230 Speaker 1: his way through the people, greeting each one like an 299 00:21:08,340 --> 00:21:08,840 Speaker 1: old friend. 300 00:21:09,470 --> 00:21:12,920 Speaker 7: Shalom, brothers and sisters. It's so good to see you. 301 00:21:13,920 --> 00:21:16,459 Speaker 5: I'm sorry to have kept you all, but it seems 302 00:21:16,520 --> 00:21:18,840 Speaker 5: like the wait will be well worth it today. 303 00:21:19,420 --> 00:21:24,600 Speaker 1: With a newfound peace, John glanced at Jesus with a smile, 304 00:21:25,580 --> 00:21:27,900 Speaker 1: finally returning a knowing wink. 305 00:21:29,920 --> 00:21:31,140 Speaker 4: Perhaps it was. 306 00:21:31,040 --> 00:21:36,180 Speaker 1: The anticipation that had led to John's previous nerves. But now, 307 00:21:36,980 --> 00:21:40,450 Speaker 1: Surrounded by others who had a sincere love of God 308 00:21:41,030 --> 00:21:46,109 Speaker 1: and desired to see his kingdom come, he was confident 309 00:21:46,390 --> 00:21:51,710 Speaker 1: in the Lord's guidance at this moment. Wading carefully into 310 00:21:51,750 --> 00:21:56,929 Speaker 1: the Jordan, he stretched out his arm. The animated river 311 00:21:57,109 --> 00:22:00,879 Speaker 1: coursed calmly around John's ankles as he made his way 312 00:22:01,280 --> 00:22:06,640 Speaker 1: to deeper waters. The light's reflection bounced off the surface 313 00:22:07,100 --> 00:22:11,520 Speaker 1: like crystals, like a shimmering glimpse of the glory of God. 314 00:22:13,220 --> 00:22:17,619 Speaker 1: John turned, murmured a prayer to God, and stretched out 315 00:22:17,810 --> 00:22:18,200 Speaker 1: his hand. 316 00:22:18,900 --> 00:22:22,350 Speaker 5: You have asked if I am the Messiah. I have 317 00:22:22,430 --> 00:22:25,910 Speaker 5: turned my head at such ideas enough to be an owl. 318 00:22:27,310 --> 00:22:28,689 Speaker 7: I baptize you with water. 319 00:22:29,570 --> 00:22:33,290 Speaker 5: The one who comes after me will baptize you with fire, 320 00:22:34,070 --> 00:22:37,620 Speaker 5: the fire of God's Spirit. I'm not even worthy to 321 00:22:38,080 --> 00:22:41,800 Speaker 5: unstrap his sandals, let alone proclaim his coming to you today. 322 00:22:43,460 --> 00:22:48,169 Speaker 7: Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins. 323 00:22:47,910 --> 00:22:48,510 Speaker 5: Of the world. 324 00:22:49,030 --> 00:22:55,350 Speaker 1: Emerging from the crowd, walked Jesus. His entrance confused people, 325 00:22:56,410 --> 00:23:01,219 Speaker 1: as there was nothing remarkable about him. He wore craftsman's 326 00:23:01,300 --> 00:23:07,340 Speaker 1: clothes and held himself without much authority. He waded into 327 00:23:07,380 --> 00:23:12,350 Speaker 1: the water, the sun's light dancing with each wake upwards 328 00:23:12,400 --> 00:23:18,209 Speaker 1: in his face. Jesus stood slightly taller than John. His 329 00:23:18,250 --> 00:23:25,050 Speaker 1: smile was reassuring, serene. It filled John with peace. What 330 00:23:25,090 --> 00:23:29,609 Speaker 1: a loving prompt. Jesus encouraged his cousin to begin. 331 00:23:30,470 --> 00:23:31,030 Speaker 2: It is time. 332 00:23:31,869 --> 00:23:35,820 Speaker 6: Enjoy this moment. The Lord is with you, with us. 333 00:23:36,650 --> 00:23:38,960 Speaker 6: Pay close attention to what you're about to witness. 334 00:23:39,820 --> 00:23:43,120 Speaker 1: Jesus spoke the very words that John didn't even know 335 00:23:43,200 --> 00:23:48,320 Speaker 1: he needed to hear. With this encouragement, every uncertainty and 336 00:23:48,440 --> 00:23:52,960 Speaker 1: question in John's mind seemed to melt away like snow 337 00:23:53,240 --> 00:23:56,659 Speaker 1: at the first light of spring. And in their places, 338 00:23:57,850 --> 00:24:03,689 Speaker 1: vibrant flowers of hope grew. The people watched as the 339 00:24:03,750 --> 00:24:08,820 Speaker 1: baptizer took Jesus' hand in his wrapping his arm around 340 00:24:08,859 --> 00:24:14,020 Speaker 1: his back. John looked down at the water, the very 341 00:24:14,100 --> 00:24:18,619 Speaker 1: same waters he had baptized many in. But this time 342 00:24:18,720 --> 00:24:21,899 Speaker 1: the water seemed to radiate in a way he had 343 00:24:22,000 --> 00:24:28,929 Speaker 1: never before seen. Breaking away from his trance, John caught Jesus' eye. 344 00:24:30,650 --> 00:24:35,770 Speaker 1: Jesus looked at John and gave a simple nod. The 345 00:24:35,810 --> 00:24:43,909 Speaker 1: time had come. John lowered Jesus into the waters. When 346 00:24:43,950 --> 00:24:47,100 Speaker 1: he was below, John sighed a brief prayer. 347 00:24:49,800 --> 00:24:52,900 Speaker 5: Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the universe, 348 00:24:53,600 --> 00:24:57,310 Speaker 5: who has made a way for his people Israel. May 349 00:24:57,400 --> 00:25:00,889 Speaker 5: our Savior rise with all the glory of the heavens above. 350 00:25:01,630 --> 00:25:06,369 Speaker 1: In one solid motion, John pulled Jesus out of the waters. 351 00:25:07,820 --> 00:25:13,740 Speaker 1: Droplets cascaded through the air like diamonds. With a swift inhale, 352 00:25:14,140 --> 00:25:18,020 Speaker 1: Jesus caught his breath, turned toward John, and wrapped his 353 00:25:18,180 --> 00:25:23,419 Speaker 1: arms around him in a fond embrace. In a hushed whisper, 354 00:25:24,280 --> 00:25:26,879 Speaker 1: Jesus shared his gratitude with his cousin. 355 00:25:27,460 --> 00:25:30,540 Speaker 6: And blessed are you, John, who has made straight the 356 00:25:30,580 --> 00:25:31,660 Speaker 6: paths of the Lord. 357 00:25:32,119 --> 00:25:34,850 Speaker 1: All of a sudden, the leaves of the trees began 358 00:25:34,880 --> 00:25:38,139 Speaker 1: to rustle. as the shadows they cast upon the ground 359 00:25:38,560 --> 00:25:42,280 Speaker 1: began to shift, tessellating the dirt with hues of green 360 00:25:42,619 --> 00:25:47,320 Speaker 1: and yellow through the filter of the leaves. Above, the 361 00:25:47,380 --> 00:25:52,179 Speaker 1: clouds that lingered in the sky began to separate. As 362 00:25:52,460 --> 00:25:56,350 Speaker 1: eyes drifted to the skies, it seemed as though the 363 00:25:56,460 --> 00:26:01,750 Speaker 1: heavens were opening up, a glorious parting like that of 364 00:26:01,790 --> 00:26:06,930 Speaker 1: the Red Sea. The slow rumblings of panic set into 365 00:26:06,970 --> 00:26:11,369 Speaker 1: the crowd, worried that a storm had swept in without warning. 366 00:26:11,930 --> 00:26:12,610 Speaker 7: What's happening? 367 00:26:13,369 --> 00:26:14,109 Speaker 6: Should we go? 368 00:26:14,690 --> 00:26:16,470 Speaker 7: Looks like a storm is approaching. 369 00:26:17,040 --> 00:26:20,540 Speaker 1: But their questions were answered in an instant. What they 370 00:26:20,600 --> 00:26:24,659 Speaker 1: witnessed next caused their feet to remain planted to the 371 00:26:24,720 --> 00:26:31,720 Speaker 1: ground like terebinth trees. From the newly parted heavens descended 372 00:26:31,920 --> 00:26:36,180 Speaker 1: a blinding light, and with it, A great torrent of 373 00:26:36,380 --> 00:26:42,510 Speaker 1: wind rushed around them. Yet, to their surprise, the increasing 374 00:26:42,590 --> 00:26:48,530 Speaker 1: conditions only seemed to calm their fears. As they squinted 375 00:26:48,570 --> 00:26:52,210 Speaker 1: their eyes to peer through the bright lights, they could 376 00:26:52,330 --> 00:26:57,830 Speaker 1: just make out the form of a dove descending down, 377 00:26:58,750 --> 00:27:03,600 Speaker 1: working its way steadily but surely towards the man who 378 00:27:03,630 --> 00:27:09,399 Speaker 1: had just come up out of the water. This ethereal 379 00:27:09,520 --> 00:27:14,580 Speaker 1: being was none other than the Spirit of God, come 380 00:27:14,700 --> 00:27:21,270 Speaker 1: to rest upon and empower God's anointed one. Just then, 381 00:27:22,030 --> 00:27:26,550 Speaker 1: the wind stilled. From the silence came a voice from 382 00:27:26,590 --> 00:27:31,170 Speaker 1: the skies. Though no face could be seen, the sound 383 00:27:31,270 --> 00:27:37,940 Speaker 1: was crystal clear. resonated within the people's chests. The brilliant 384 00:27:38,020 --> 00:27:41,879 Speaker 1: lights began to fade back to the normal glow of 385 00:27:41,920 --> 00:27:48,750 Speaker 1: the desert sun. The heavens closed like curtains. Unable to 386 00:27:48,810 --> 00:27:52,510 Speaker 1: find words, the gatherers wondered if their eyes and ears 387 00:27:52,570 --> 00:27:56,670 Speaker 1: had deceived them. But no one could deny what they 388 00:27:56,710 --> 00:28:02,320 Speaker 1: had seen and heard. They knew were the first witnesses 389 00:28:02,420 --> 00:28:07,640 Speaker 1: to God's declaration that he had sent his Son to 390 00:28:07,800 --> 00:28:13,399 Speaker 1: rescue his people. What began with the commonality of the 391 00:28:13,520 --> 00:28:16,860 Speaker 1: hundreds of other baptisms John had performed in the Jordan 392 00:28:17,820 --> 00:28:23,520 Speaker 1: had quickly turned into a cataclysmic moment in Jesus' ministry. 393 00:28:25,180 --> 00:28:29,980 Speaker 1: This was an undeniable sign that the Messiah had come 394 00:28:30,820 --> 00:28:37,159 Speaker 1: with the approval of the Father of Lights. Baptized with water, 395 00:28:38,080 --> 00:28:42,950 Speaker 1: but empowered by the Spirit, the Son of Man had come, 396 00:28:44,350 --> 00:28:48,890 Speaker 1: and He was getting ready to change the world. 397 00:29:00,730 --> 00:29:03,810 Speaker 4: Let's start with a quick introduction to John the Baptist. 398 00:29:04,730 --> 00:29:07,820 Speaker 4: John was quite the character. He was the son of 399 00:29:07,880 --> 00:29:11,180 Speaker 4: Zacharias and Elizabeth, born to them in their old age, 400 00:29:11,640 --> 00:29:15,220 Speaker 4: a miracle baby announced by an angel. He didn't just 401 00:29:15,440 --> 00:29:18,520 Speaker 4: stroll into town to preach. He made his pulpit out 402 00:29:18,600 --> 00:29:23,590 Speaker 4: in the wilderness of Judea. And his message? It was straightforward. Repent, 403 00:29:23,870 --> 00:29:26,410 Speaker 4: for the kingdom of God is at hand. Matthew 3, 404 00:29:26,390 --> 00:29:30,890 Speaker 4: verse 2. Now, repentance isn't a word we hear much 405 00:29:30,970 --> 00:29:34,130 Speaker 4: outside of church, is it? Sometimes we think it means 406 00:29:34,350 --> 00:29:38,050 Speaker 4: just feeling sorry for what we've done. But John's call 407 00:29:38,070 --> 00:29:42,700 Speaker 4: to repentance wasn't about shedding a few tears and feeling guilty. No, 408 00:29:43,220 --> 00:29:48,290 Speaker 4: repentance means to change, to turn around, to reorient your life. 409 00:29:49,490 --> 00:29:52,550 Speaker 4: Imagine you're on a road trip and you suddenly realize 410 00:29:52,570 --> 00:29:56,510 Speaker 4: you're headed in the wrong direction. Repentance is like making 411 00:29:56,550 --> 00:29:59,940 Speaker 4: a U-turn to get back on the right path. And 412 00:30:00,080 --> 00:30:03,140 Speaker 4: why was John so urgent in his message? Because the 413 00:30:03,240 --> 00:30:06,340 Speaker 4: kingdom of heaven was near, as close as your hand. 414 00:30:07,060 --> 00:30:10,790 Speaker 4: He wasn't talking about a far-off dream or a distant promise. 415 00:30:11,350 --> 00:30:14,950 Speaker 4: He was talking about something immediate, something you needed to 416 00:30:15,030 --> 00:30:19,370 Speaker 4: get ready for right now. John wasn't your average preacher either. 417 00:30:20,120 --> 00:30:23,260 Speaker 4: He didn't dress in fine robes or dine in luxury. 418 00:30:24,160 --> 00:30:26,820 Speaker 4: He wore camel's hair and lived on a diet of 419 00:30:26,940 --> 00:30:30,300 Speaker 4: locusts and wild honey. He was a man on a mission, 420 00:30:30,760 --> 00:30:34,260 Speaker 4: much like the prophet Elijah before him. His whole life 421 00:30:34,320 --> 00:30:36,920 Speaker 4: was a call to wake people up from their spiritual 422 00:30:37,000 --> 00:30:40,350 Speaker 4: slumber and prepare their hearts for the coming of the Messiah. 423 00:30:41,120 --> 00:30:45,270 Speaker 4: And what happened when John preached? The people responded. Matthew 424 00:30:45,310 --> 00:30:48,790 Speaker 4: tells us that Jerusalem, all Judea, and the region around 425 00:30:48,830 --> 00:30:53,050 Speaker 4: the Jordan went out to him. In Matthew 3, verse 5. 426 00:30:53,050 --> 00:30:56,520 Speaker 4: Imagine the sight. Crowds of people confessing their sins and 427 00:30:56,800 --> 00:31:00,140 Speaker 4: being baptized in the Jordan. It was a spiritual revival 428 00:31:00,260 --> 00:31:04,440 Speaker 4: unlike any that Israel had ever seen. But then, something 429 00:31:04,720 --> 00:31:10,840 Speaker 4: unexpected happened. Jesus came from Galilee to be baptized by John. Now, 430 00:31:11,040 --> 00:31:14,640 Speaker 4: John knew who Jesus was. It was his cousin. He 431 00:31:14,800 --> 00:31:18,400 Speaker 4: also knew that Jesus had no sin to confess. He 432 00:31:18,440 --> 00:31:22,020 Speaker 4: had no need to repent. So, naturally, John tried to 433 00:31:22,060 --> 00:31:24,980 Speaker 4: prevent him, saying, I need to be baptized by you. 434 00:31:25,310 --> 00:31:29,500 Speaker 4: Are you coming to me? That's in Matthew 3, verse 14. 435 00:31:29,500 --> 00:31:33,670 Speaker 4: But Jesus responded with words that have puzzled many. Permit 436 00:31:33,710 --> 00:31:36,070 Speaker 4: it to be so now, for thus it is fitting 437 00:31:36,130 --> 00:31:41,210 Speaker 4: for us to fulfill all righteousness. Matthew 3, verse 15. 438 00:31:41,210 --> 00:31:44,550 Speaker 4: What did he mean by that? Jesus was showing us 439 00:31:44,610 --> 00:31:48,950 Speaker 4: that he came to fully identify with us, with our humanity, 440 00:31:49,370 --> 00:31:53,780 Speaker 4: our struggles, and yes, even our sin. Though he himself 441 00:31:53,860 --> 00:31:57,850 Speaker 4: was sinless. He was stepping into our shoes, beginning His 442 00:31:57,990 --> 00:32:01,750 Speaker 4: public ministry by symbolically taking on the sins of the world. 443 00:32:02,310 --> 00:32:07,330 Speaker 4: As Jesus was baptized, something incredible happened. The heavens opened, 444 00:32:07,630 --> 00:32:11,100 Speaker 4: and the Spirit of God descended like a dove, alighting 445 00:32:11,160 --> 00:32:14,680 Speaker 4: upon Him. And then a voice from heaven said, This 446 00:32:14,800 --> 00:32:17,480 Speaker 4: is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 447 00:32:17,500 --> 00:32:19,400 Speaker 4: In this moment, we see the beautiful harmony of the Trinity. 448 00:32:25,250 --> 00:32:29,150 Speaker 4: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, affirming Jesus' 449 00:32:29,230 --> 00:32:33,570 Speaker 4: mission and identity. God the Father, with a voice of 450 00:32:33,670 --> 00:32:38,430 Speaker 4: love and affirmation, declares His pleasure in Jesus. The Holy 451 00:32:38,470 --> 00:32:43,760 Speaker 4: Spirit descends like a dove, symbolizing peace, purity, and the 452 00:32:43,840 --> 00:32:47,840 Speaker 4: gentle yet powerful presence of God. This scene at the 453 00:32:47,880 --> 00:32:51,880 Speaker 4: Jordan River isn't just an ancient story. It's a picture 454 00:32:51,900 --> 00:32:54,840 Speaker 4: of what happens when we come to God. Just as 455 00:32:54,940 --> 00:32:58,950 Speaker 4: Jesus identified with us through His baptism, He invites us 456 00:32:59,030 --> 00:33:03,010 Speaker 4: to identify with Him through our baptism, to die to 457 00:33:03,150 --> 00:33:07,430 Speaker 4: our old selves and rise to new life in Him. So, 458 00:33:07,910 --> 00:33:11,190 Speaker 4: as we reflect on the baptism of Jesus, let's remember 459 00:33:11,250 --> 00:33:13,820 Speaker 4: that we are called to live out our own baptism 460 00:33:14,020 --> 00:33:17,580 Speaker 4: every day. We're called to turn away from sin, to 461 00:33:17,660 --> 00:33:20,260 Speaker 4: walk in the newness of life, and to live with 462 00:33:20,300 --> 00:33:24,400 Speaker 4: the assurance that we are God's beloved children. in whom 463 00:33:24,500 --> 00:33:25,870 Speaker 4: he is well pleased.