sermon by Theo Ipema, Jan 11th
Considering the Jesus’ divine nature as the Son of God and His sinless existence, many have wondered why Jesus felt the need to be baptized. John the Baptist was the first to wonder, when Jesus approached him at the Jordan River.
Spoiler alert: It’s not a mistake.
The Question of Propriety
When Jesus came to be baptized, John was taken aback and expressed a natural hesitance. “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” he asked.
From John’s perspective, and perhaps from ours as well, baptism was for the cleansing of sins. So why would Jesus, who was without sin, need to participate in this sacrament?
Fulfilling All Righteousness
Jesus’ response is insightful.
He told John, “It is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.”
Here, righteousness is not only a matter of morality but also doing what is proper. So, in keeping with what was proper, both Jesus and John understood the importance of this event. It was not about acknowledging sin, but about fulfilling a divine purpose.
Many parents bring their children for baptism because it feels like the proper thing to do. It’s what tradition teaches us, and perhaps in that sense, Jesus’ baptism set an example. Whatever the motive, God often uses such events in profound ways, highlighting the sacred nature of sacraments.
Baptism as Epiphany
In reflecting on Jesus’ baptism, I find it enlightening to view it as an epiphany. An epiphany reveals, making known the meaning and purpose behind an event. Through His baptism, we come to understand more deeply who Jesus is and what He is called to do. Likewise, it reminds us of who we are and our calling.
Visually, medieval art depicts Jesus’ baptism with vivid imagery—a cloak of water, a descending dove, and a celestial halo. These symbols tell us much about Jesus’ divinity, especially when combined with God’s proclamation, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” These words from the Gospel point us back to the prophecy from Isaiah, emphasizing Jesus as the Son, servant, and chosen one.
Our Calling as Baptized Christians
Drawing from these scriptural and historical insights, our own baptisms take on new significance. Baptism is described as an ordination, a commissioning of sorts. We are not merely participants in a ritual; we are ordained to serve as sons and daughters, as servants and chosen ones, reflecting Christ’s mission in the world.
I believe it’s a common misconception to reserve the term “ordained” for bishops, priests, and deacons alone. However, baptism ordains each of us to be ministers, called to bear witness, carry out acts of service, and represent the Church. Jesus’ life exemplified this through His teachings, miracles, and ultimate sacrifice.
Justice and Servanthood
In serving, justice as described in Isaiah is of paramount importance—not the justice of human rights as we understand today, but a justice that teaches reverence for God. As Jesus’ followers, we are tasked with making God’s lordship known, serving without proclamation, just as Jesus did good throughout His ministry.
Jesus’ own baptism was a moment when God called and commissioned Him for His earthly mission. Similarly, in our baptisms, God commissions us to represent Christ, striving to reconcile the world with the love of God.
In conclusion, Jesus’ baptism was far from a mistake. It serves as an epiphany, a continuous revelation paving the way for us to walk as His beloved children and faithful servants. Thanks be to God for this incredible gift of baptismal life.