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Jesus - Baptism

Religion:

Christianity

Level:

8

Type:

text

GCSE topic:

The Beginning of Jesus’ Ministry

At around the age of 30, Jesus began a new and very important chapter in his life, known as his ministry. This is the time when he started teaching people about God’s love, forgiveness, and the way God wanted them to live. But before Jesus could begin his ministry, two key events took place that prepared him for the mission ahead.

The Baptism of Jesus

The first major event was Jesus’ baptism by his cousin, John the Baptist. John was already a well-known preacher who told people to repent (turn away from their sins) and prepare for God’s kingdom. Many people came to him to be baptised in the River Jordan as a sign of starting a new, cleaner life.

When Jesus came to John to be baptised, something extraordinary happened. According to Matthew’s Gospel (chapter 3), as Jesus rose out of the water:

  • The heavens opened.

  • The Spirit of God descended like a dove and rested on him.

  • A voice from heaven declared: “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”

This baptism was not just a simple ritual – it was a public confirmation of who Jesus was: the Son of God. It also marked the official beginning of his ministry. For Christians, the baptism shows Jesus’ humility, as he chose to be baptised like everyone else, even though he was without sin.

Why the Baptism matters

For Christians today, the baptism of Jesus is deeply meaningful:

  • Baptism reminds them of their own baptism and how it marks the beginning of a life with God.

  • The voice from heaven shows that Jesus is God’s Son, chosen and loved.

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