GSG: The Baptism of Jesus

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Revision as of 11:22, 29 March 2025 by Pig (talk | contribs) (Created page with "'''Group Study Guide: The Baptism of Jesus''' '''Scripture Passages:''' * Mark 1:9-11 * Matthew 3:13-17 * Luke 3:21-22 * John 1:29-34 ---- === '''Opening Discussion:''' === * Why do you think Jesus was baptized even though He was sinless? * How does Jesus’ baptism mark the beginning of His public ministry? ---- === '''Part 1: Observing the Passage''' === '''Read Mark 1:9-11, Matthew 3:13-17, Luke 3:21-22, and John 1:29-34 aloud.''' ==== '''Common Elements in Al...")
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Group Study Guide: The Baptism of Jesus

Scripture Passages:

  • Mark 1:9-11
  • Matthew 3:13-17
  • Luke 3:21-22
  • John 1:29-34

Opening Discussion:

  • Why do you think Jesus was baptized even though He was sinless?
  • How does Jesus’ baptism mark the beginning of His public ministry?

Part 1: Observing the Passage

Read Mark 1:9-11, Matthew 3:13-17, Luke 3:21-22, and John 1:29-34 aloud.

Common Elements in All Four Accounts:

  1. Jesus comes to John to be baptized – His baptism signifies the start of His public ministry.
  2. The heavens open and the Spirit descends like a dove – A sign of divine affirmation and anointing.
  3. A voice from heaven declares Jesus as the beloved Son – God's direct confirmation of Jesus' identity.
  4. Each account highlights a different aspect of the event – Providing a fuller picture of its significance.

Key Differences Between the Accounts:

Feature Mark 1:9-11 Matthew 3:13-17 Luke 3:21-22 John 1:29-34
Focus Concise and action-oriented Theological, emphasizes righteousness Jesus praying, divine communion Testimony of John the Baptist, Jesus as the Lamb of God
Key Elements Spirit descends, voice from heaven Dialogue between John and Jesus, righteousness Jesus is praying as the Spirit descends No direct mention of baptism, John declares Jesus as the Lamb of God
Significance Public inauguration of Jesus’ ministry Jesus fulfills all righteousness Highlights Jesus' prayer life and divine sonship Focus on Jesus' identity rather than the event itself

Part 2: Understanding the Significance

1. The Purpose of Jesus’ Baptism

  • If Jesus had no sin, why was He baptized?
  • How does Jesus' baptism symbolize His future death and resurrection?

2. The Descent of the Holy Spirit

  • What does the Spirit descending like a dove signify?
  • How does this moment relate to Genesis 1:2 and the theme of new creation?

3. The Voice from Heaven

  • Read Psalm 2:7 and Isaiah 42:1. How do these Old Testament references connect to God’s declaration?
  • What does it mean that Jesus is God's beloved Son?

4. John’s Testimony in the Gospel of John

  • Why does John's Gospel focus on Jesus as the Lamb of God instead of describing the baptism event?
  • How does this emphasize Jesus’ sacrificial role in redemption?

Part 3: Applying the Message

  • How does Jesus' baptism serve as a model for our own baptism?
  • In what ways does this passage affirm Jesus' identity and mission?
  • How can we, like John the Baptist, point others to Christ?

Challenge for the Week:

  • Reflect on how your baptism (or faith commitment) shapes your life as a disciple.
  • Share with someone this week why Jesus’ baptism matters in the bigger story of redemption.
  • Spend time in prayer, seeking a deeper understanding of your identity as a child of God.

Closing Prayer:

Thank God for sending Jesus as the perfect example of obedience. Ask for a renewed sense of purpose in following Christ and pointing others to Him.

Memory Verse:

“And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.’” – Matthew 3:17

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