Chapter 3
Matthew’s narrative moves ahead almost thirty years and we find ourselves reading about a very strange figure. He is disturbing in dress and he eats locust with a little honey. His appearance reminds us of an earlier prophet named Elijah and he comes preaching with tremendous power. He preaches in the wilderness and his sermon is titled “Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Isaiah prophesied concerning him. He was the forerunner that would come to prepare the way for King Jesus. He tells the people to turn from their sin and to trust in the King.
One day while John is baptizing, Jesus shows up and asks John to baptize him. After a little coercion John baptizes Jesus. He does so to fulfill all righteousness. What does this mean? It identifies Jesus with sinners, it validated John’s baptism, and the Father and the Spirit witness and empower his ministry. Jesus comes out of Egypt (ch.2) and passes through the water (ch.3). This mirrors Israel’s journey but where Israel failed as God’s son, Jesus will prevail. The father can and will be pleased with this Son because he demonstrates an obedience of faith (ch.4).