Christ Identifies with Us

The ministry of Jesus Christ in the book of Mark begins with His baptism. That Mark does not provide significant context to the event narrows us in on some of the value of Christ's participation.

John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins ... In those days Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. Immediately coming up out of the water, He saw the heavens opening, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon Him; and a voice came out of the heavens: “You are My beloved Son, in You I am well-pleased.” — Mark 1:4, 10-11

Theological discussions about the baptism of John can be a muddled adventure. Is it the same as the later baptism of Christ or the Apostles? While an interesting question, it does not reflect the importance of the baptism in Mark. John is preaching repentance of sins and Christ submits Himself to it. Any attempt to divert our eyes from this is wasted.

Christ—who was sinless—subjects Himself to a baptism of repentance. In doing this, Christ submits Himself to the proper and wise judgment of God. And though He would pass without judgment, He chooses to identify with fallen man in their judgment. Christ's baptism is repentance for all the sins of mankind. Christ's baptism is a humble submission by the God-Man on behalf of the world.

That Christ subjects Himself to John's baptism is not confusing. It is comforting. It is not perplexing. It's the beginning of God's perfecting of His Saints. This is what pleases the Father.