Matthew 3:6
And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 11
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἐβαπτίζοντο
were baptized
G907
ἐβαπτίζοντο
were baptized
Strong's:
G907
Word #:
2 of 11
to immerse, submerge; to make whelmed (i.e., fully wet); used only (in the new testament) of ceremonial ablution, especially (technically) of the ordi
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὑπ'
of
G5259
ὑπ'
of
Strong's:
G5259
Word #:
6 of 11
under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (
αὐτῶν
him
G846
αὐτῶν
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
7 of 11
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
ἐξομολογούμενοι
confessing
G1843
ἐξομολογούμενοι
confessing
Strong's:
G1843
Word #:
8 of 11
to acknowledge or (by implication, of assent) agree fully
Cross References
Acts 19:18And many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds.Hebrews 9:10Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.1 John 1:9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.Matthew 3:11I 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:
Historical Context
Jewish proselyte baptism was known, but John's baptism of Jews was revolutionary, implying ethnic Israel needed the same repentance as Gentile converts. Public confession in the Jordan River was a humbling act, renouncing self-righteousness before the covenant community.
Questions for Reflection
- Why is specific confession of particular sins important rather than vague acknowledgment of general sinfulness?
- What does the public nature of confession teach about accountability within the Christian community?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The act of baptism signified repentance and cleansing, but confession of sins was equally crucial. True repentance involves specific acknowledgment of sin, not merely general admission of human imperfection. John's baptism was preparatory, pointing to Christ's superior baptism with the Holy Spirit. The public confession demonstrated the social dimension of repentance—sin is not merely private but affects the covenant community.