Matthew 3:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 3:15
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.
Chapter Context
Matthew 3 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, judgment, salvation. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-17: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 3:15
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.
Analysis
Jesus' explanation that baptism 'fulfills all righteousness' indicates He came not to abolish the law but to fulfill it perfectly (Matthew 5:17). His baptism inaugurates His public ministry and identifies Him with the sinners He came to save, though He Himself had no sin. This demonstrates the active obedience of Christ—His perfect law-keeping on behalf of His people. 'It becometh us' includes both Jesus and John in God's redemptive purposes.
Historical Context
Christ's baptism occurred around AD 27-29 at the beginning of His public ministry, approximately age 30 (Luke 3:23). This fulfilled the requirement for Levitical priests to begin ministry at 30 (Numbers 4:3), connecting Jesus' baptism to His priestly office.
Reflection
- How does Christ's baptism demonstrate His active obedience in fulfilling all righteousness on behalf of His people?
- What does Jesus' identification with sinners at baptism foreshadow about His substitutionary death on the cross?
Word Studies
- Righteous: δίκαιος (Dikaios) G1343 - Righteous, just
Cross-References
- References Jesus: John 4:34
- Righteousness: Isaiah 42:21, Luke 1:6
- Parallel theme: John 8:29, 13:15, 15:10, Hebrews 7:26, 1 John 2:6