Matthew - Chapter 3

Matthew 3.1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, Matthew 3.2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 3.3 For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Matthew 3.4 And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. Matthew 3.5 Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, Matthew 3.6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. Matthew 3.7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Matthew 3.8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: Matthew 3.9 And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. Matthew 3.10 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Matthew 3.11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: Matthew 3.12 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. Matthew 3.13 Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. Matthew 3.14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? Matthew 3.15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. Matthew 3.16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: Matthew 3.17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

Matthew : Chapter 3

The Ministry of John the Baptist and the Baptism of Jesus

Chapter 3 of the Gospel of Matthew vividly presents the ministry of John the Baptist and the baptism of Jesus. This pivotal text invites us to reflect on the preparation that precedes the coming of the Messiah. John's preaching of repentance, his baptism in the Jordan River, and the baptism of Jesus are pivotal events that pave the way for the Kingdom of Heaven.

Key Themes of Matthew 3

This chapter addresses fundamental themes such as the coming judgment and the divine identity of Jesus. It culminates with Jesus' heavenly approval, marking a moment of divine revelation. Let's reflect together on five biblical passages that shed light on these crucial events.

Exegesis of Scripture

Isaiah 40:3

"A voice cries out: 'In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight paths in the desert for our God.' »

Matthew 3:3 cites this prophecy, applying it to John the Baptist as the forerunner of Jesus, thus revealing divine preparation for the Savior's arrival.

Malachi 3:1

“See, I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. And suddenly the Lord, whom you seek, will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you delight in, will come,” says the Lord of hosts. »

This prophecy also refers to John the Baptist, whose mission is clearly described in Matthew 3, highlighting his crucial role in salvation history.

Joel 2:13

“Rend your hearts, not your garments. Turn to the Lord your God, for he is merciful and gracious, longsuffering and full of love; repent and send no evil.” »

John the Baptist's message of repentance in Matthew 3 echoes this prophetic call, inviting us to a sincere conversion.

Isaiah 4:4

"The Lord will wash away the filth of the women of Zion; He will cleanse the bloodstains from Jerusalem with the spirit of judgment and the spirit of fire. »

John's prophecy concerning Jesus' baptism in the Holy Spirit and in fire (Matthew 3:11) reflects this image of purification, announcing a profound spiritual transformation.

Psalms 2:7

"I will proclaim the decree of the Lord: He said to me, 'You are my son; today I have begotten you.'" »

God's statement at Jesus' baptism (Matthew 3:17) echoes this passage from the Psalm, confirming Jesus' divine identity and messianic role.

By meditating on these passages, we are called to deepen our understanding of the mystery of redemption and to fully commit ourselves to our own journey of faith.