Game Changers: Devotions for Families Who Play Different (Age 13-18)ნიმუში

Jesus’ Baptism

Ready: Matthew 3

Set:

Jesus isn’t the only miraculous birth in the New Testament. Jesus’ cousin, John was born to Zechariah and Elizabeth, who were too old to have a baby. But God told Zechariah they would have a son, and they did! They named him John. (Luke 1:5-25; 57-66). Eventually, their son would grow up and become known as “John the Baptist” because he lived in the wilderness, preaching that the people should repent and be baptized. God’s plan for John the Baptist was to be a forerunner (the one who would come before and announce) of his cousin, Jesus. His purpose was to prepare the way for the Messiah (Jesus), to help the people get ready for Jesus. Many people came from all around to hear John preach and encourage listeners to “Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven has come near”(Matthew 3:2).

One of the biggest moments came when Jesus came to John the Baptist to be baptized. John knew Jesus was the Messiah—God’s Son and the promised Savior! He couldn’t believe Jesus wanted to be baptized by him! He said, “I need to be baptized by you, and yet you come to me,” (verse 14), but Jesus encouraged him to proceed with the baptism. As Jesus came up out of the water, a voice from heaven (the voice of God) said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (verse 17).

Jesus’ baptism is a crucial first step in his ministry. When Jesus was baptized, it showed His willingness to submit His will to His Father’s will. It also gives us an example to follow. Once we believe in Jesus as our Savior and receive His gift of eternal life, we are baptized to show on the outside what has happened on the inside. When we go under the water, it’s like we are burying our old selves, and we are raised into new life with Jesus. What a beautiful picture and wonderful example Jesus gave us.

Following His baptism, the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus. His public ministry began that day, and the world would never be the same. Because of Jesus, humans could be reconnected with God in that close relationship we were always meant to have.

Go:

1. Who was John the Baptist? How was his role important?
2. Why did Jesus want John the Baptist to baptize him?
3. What is the significance of Jesus getting baptized?
4. How is baptism symbolic? What does it mean for a Christian?

Workout:

Isaiah 40:3; Matthew 3:3; Matthew 11:11; Luke 1:13-17

Overtime:

“Lord, thank You that what You say happens. Your words are true. Thank You for the gift of eternal life through Jesus. Give me an understanding of Your word and open my heart to grow closer to You. Help me follow Jesus’s example. In Jesus’s name, amen.”