Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now--"Let it pass for the present"; that is, "Thou recoilest, and no wonder, for the seeming incongruity is startling; but in the present case do as thou art bidden." for thus it becometh us--"us," not in the sense of me and thee," or "men in general," but as in Joh 3:11. to fulfil all righteousness--If this be rendered, with SCRIVENER, "every ordinance," or, with CAMPBELL, "every institution," the meaning is obvious enough; and the same sense is brought out by "all righteousness," or compliance with everything enjoined, baptism included. Indeed, if this be the meaning, our version perhaps best brings out the force of the opening word "Thus." But we incline to think that our Lord meant more than this. The import of circumcision and of baptism seems to be radically the same. And if our remarks on the circumcision of our Lord (see on Luk 2:21-24) are well founded, He would seem to have said, "Thus do I impledge Myself to the whole righteousness of the Law--thus symbolically do enter on and engage to fulfil it all." Let the thoughtful reader weigh this. Then he suffered him--with true humility, yielding to higher authority than his own impressions of propriety. Descent of the Spirit upon the Baptized Redeemer (Mat 3:16-17).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And Jesus answering, said unto him,.... This is an Hebrew way of speaking, often used in the Old Testament, and answers to see Job 3:1. He replied to John, who had made use of very forbidding words, after this manner, suffer it to be so now; let me have my request; do not go on to object, but comply with my desire; let it be done now, immediately, directly, at this present time; do not put me off with any excuse; it is a proper season for it, even "now", since the time is not yet come that I am to baptize with the Holy Ghost; and besides, thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. It became John to administer the ordinance of baptism to Christ, as he was his forerunner, and the only administrator of it, and that he might fulfil the ministry which he had received; and as it became Christ to fulfil all righteousness, moral and ceremonial, and baptism being a part of his Father's will, which he came to do, it became him to fulfil this also. And since it became Christ, it cannot be unbecoming us to submit to this ordinance; and since he looked upon it as a part of righteousness to be fulfilled by him, it ought to be attended to by all those who would be accounted followers of him. Christ having strongly urged the conveniency and equity of the administration of baptism to him, which showed his eager desire after it, and the lowliness of his mind; and John being convinced, and overcome by the force of his reasoning, agrees to his baptism; then he suffered him, i.e. to be baptized in water by him, as he had requested, and accordingly did administer it to him.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:15 for we must carry out all that God requires: Or for we must fulfill all righteousness. This statement refers to accomplishing what the Old Testament demanded or foreshadowed (e.g., Jer 31:31-34). “Righteousness” in Matthew refers to behavior that conforms to God’s will (see Matt 5:20; 6:1, 33; 21:32).
The Baptism of Jesus
14But John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and do You come to me?”15“Let it be so now,” Jesus replied. “It is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness in this way.” Then John permitted Him.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
Jesus Christ the Son of God
By Theodore Beza3MAT 3:15JHN 1:14ACT 1:9ROM 3:19ROM 5:8ROM 5:19ROM 8:29ROM 8:322CO 5:21EPH 2:6COL 2:91TI 2:5HEB 13:81PE 2:24Theodore Beza preaches about how God, in His righteousness and mercy, has turned the sin of man to His glory by establishing a way to manifest His infinite goodness and power through the salvation of His chosen ones and the condemnation of the vessels of wrath. Beza emphasizes Jesus Christ as the sole Mediator chosen by God, fulfilling the covenant of salvation between God and humanity, uniting the Old and New Testaments in Himself. He explains the necessity for Jesus Christ to be true man without sin and true God to reconcile humanity with God and satisfy divine justice, highlighting the accomplishment of our salvation through Christ's life, death, and resurrection.
The Holy Spirit
By T. Austin-Sparks1The Role of the Holy SpiritHolinessDEU 22:10MAT 3:15JHN 14:26JHN 14:30ACT 1:5ROM 1:3T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit as the 'Spirit of Holiness', contrasting it with the unholy spirit represented by Satan. He discusses the misconceptions surrounding holiness, which often lead to bondage and confusion among believers, and stresses that true holiness is a powerful force against unrighteousness. Sparks illustrates how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live in victory over sin and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a distinct separation from the world's influences. He concludes by reminding that holiness is not a struggle to achieve but a gift from the Holy Spirit to those who are obedient and open to His leading.
"Jesus came."- Mar 1:9.
By G. Campbell Morgan0The Beginning of the GospelIdentification with SinnersISA 42:1ISA 53:3MAT 3:15MAT 4:1MRK 1:4LUK 3:22JHN 1:29ROM 5:8G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the significance of Jesus' coming from Nazareth, highlighting His identification with humanity through baptism, anointing, and temptation. He explains that Jesus, though sinless, chose to be baptized to fulfill righteousness and to identify with sinners, thus beginning His ministry. The sermon illustrates how Jesus' baptism marked His dedication to His mission, receiving the Holy Spirit's empowerment, and the Father's affirmation of His Sonship. Morgan also discusses the temptations Jesus faced in the wilderness, underscoring His moral victory and role as the Servant of God. Ultimately, the message reveals the profound mystery of Jesus' incarnation and His purpose to establish God's Kingdom.
Compared View of the First Three Gospels, Etc.
By John Nelson Darby0The GospelsChrist's MinistryMAT 1:1MAT 4:17MAT 5:1MAT 9:35MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 1:14LUK 3:23LUK 4:18John Nelson Darby discusses the distinct characteristics and purposes of the first three Gospels, emphasizing that Mark presents a chronological account of Christ's service, while Matthew focuses on the presentation of Jesus as the Messiah and the implications of His rejection. He notes that Luke, while generally following Mark's order, includes moral teachings that are unique to his Gospel. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the genealogies and the context of Christ's ministry, particularly in relation to Israel's expectations and the establishment of the church. He concludes that the Gospels collectively reveal the nature of Christ's mission and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.
Baptism, a Divine Command to Be Observed.
By John Gill0BaptismObedience to GodMAT 3:15MAT 28:19MRK 16:16LUK 12:50JHN 14:15ACT 2:38ACT 8:36ROM 6:4GAL 3:101JN 5:3John Gill emphasizes the significance of baptism as a divine commandment that must be observed by believers, arguing that it is not merely a ceremonial act but a vital expression of faith and obedience to Christ. He asserts that baptism, as instituted by John the Baptist and commanded by Jesus, is essential for those who have repented and believed in the gospel. Gill refutes the practice of infant baptism, stating that there is no scriptural command or precedent for it, and stresses that baptism should be performed by immersion, reflecting the burial and resurrection of Christ. He encourages believers to embrace this ordinance with love and faith, highlighting that God's commandments are not burdensome but a demonstration of our love for Him. Ultimately, Gill calls for immediate obedience to this command, reminding the congregation of the blessings that come from faithfully observing God's ordinances.
The Claim of Christ
By W.H. Griffith Thomas0MAT 3:15MAT 16:17JHN 4:26JHN 5:18JHN 10:30JHN 10:33JHN 14:9JHN 14:11JHN 14:26JHN 19:7W.H. Griffith Thomas delves into the multifaceted claims of Jesus Christ, highlighting His self-proclaimed roles as the Messiah of the Jews, the Redeemer of Mankind, the Master of Mankind, the Judge of Mankind, and even claiming the prerogatives of God Himself. These claims, supported by His distinctive titles like 'Son of Man' and 'Son of God,' challenge believers to ponder the unique consciousness of Christ and the weight of His divine identity. Despite His humility, Jesus asserted unparalleled authority and relationship with God, leaving humanity with the profound dilemma of acknowledging Him as either God or not a good man.
John 1:6
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 3:15MAT 25:46JHN 1:7JHN 5:32JHN 5:341CO 10:31John Chrysostom delves into the significance of John the Baptist as the messenger sent from God to bear witness to the Light, emphasizing that John's role was not to add to the trustworthiness of Jesus but to lead others to believe through his testimony. Chrysostom explains that John's humility in accepting his role as a herald was for the salvation of many, as it made the faith in Jesus more accessible and understandable to the people. He urges the listeners to not only have faith and knowledge but also to live a pure and righteous life, as good works are essential for salvation and to avoid eternal punishment.
Pleasing the Father
By Anton Bosch01SA 15:22PRO 16:2ISA 6:8EZK 22:30MAT 3:15MAT 3:17LUK 2:511CO 10:31PHP 2:5COL 3:23Anton Bosch preaches on the highest form of acknowledgment and approval that Jesus received from God after His baptism, highlighting three key actions that led to this acclaim: Jesus' willingness to come to earth and take on human flesh, His obedience in being baptized to fulfill God's will, and His exemplary life in every detail that pleased the Father. The sermon emphasizes the importance of being willing to go where God sends us, obeying even in the smallest things, and living a life dedicated to honoring God in every aspect, whether in work, relationships, or spiritual matters.
The Cross: The Basis of the Church (Continued)
By T. Austin-Sparks0The CrossRighteousnessGEN 22:16MAT 3:15MAT 16:18MAT 27:46T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the multifaceted significance of the Cross, highlighting its God-ward aspect as securing God's rights in righteousness, which is essential for the Church's existence. He explains that the Cross addresses human unrighteousness and establishes a clear distinction between our natural state and our identity in Christ. Furthermore, he discusses the Satan-ward aspect, asserting that the Cross dismantles the works of the devil and secures victory over evil. Sparks calls for a deeper understanding of the Cross, urging believers to recognize its ongoing relevance in their spiritual lives. He concludes that the Church must be built upon the foundation of the Cross, reflecting Christ's character and purpose.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now--"Let it pass for the present"; that is, "Thou recoilest, and no wonder, for the seeming incongruity is startling; but in the present case do as thou art bidden." for thus it becometh us--"us," not in the sense of me and thee," or "men in general," but as in Joh 3:11. to fulfil all righteousness--If this be rendered, with SCRIVENER, "every ordinance," or, with CAMPBELL, "every institution," the meaning is obvious enough; and the same sense is brought out by "all righteousness," or compliance with everything enjoined, baptism included. Indeed, if this be the meaning, our version perhaps best brings out the force of the opening word "Thus." But we incline to think that our Lord meant more than this. The import of circumcision and of baptism seems to be radically the same. And if our remarks on the circumcision of our Lord (see on Luk 2:21-24) are well founded, He would seem to have said, "Thus do I impledge Myself to the whole righteousness of the Law--thus symbolically do enter on and engage to fulfil it all." Let the thoughtful reader weigh this. Then he suffered him--with true humility, yielding to higher authority than his own impressions of propriety. Descent of the Spirit upon the Baptized Redeemer (Mat 3:16-17).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And Jesus answering, said unto him,.... This is an Hebrew way of speaking, often used in the Old Testament, and answers to see Job 3:1. He replied to John, who had made use of very forbidding words, after this manner, suffer it to be so now; let me have my request; do not go on to object, but comply with my desire; let it be done now, immediately, directly, at this present time; do not put me off with any excuse; it is a proper season for it, even "now", since the time is not yet come that I am to baptize with the Holy Ghost; and besides, thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. It became John to administer the ordinance of baptism to Christ, as he was his forerunner, and the only administrator of it, and that he might fulfil the ministry which he had received; and as it became Christ to fulfil all righteousness, moral and ceremonial, and baptism being a part of his Father's will, which he came to do, it became him to fulfil this also. And since it became Christ, it cannot be unbecoming us to submit to this ordinance; and since he looked upon it as a part of righteousness to be fulfilled by him, it ought to be attended to by all those who would be accounted followers of him. Christ having strongly urged the conveniency and equity of the administration of baptism to him, which showed his eager desire after it, and the lowliness of his mind; and John being convinced, and overcome by the force of his reasoning, agrees to his baptism; then he suffered him, i.e. to be baptized in water by him, as he had requested, and accordingly did administer it to him.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:15 for we must carry out all that God requires: Or for we must fulfill all righteousness. This statement refers to accomplishing what the Old Testament demanded or foreshadowed (e.g., Jer 31:31-34). “Righteousness” in Matthew refers to behavior that conforms to God’s will (see Matt 5:20; 6:1, 33; 21:32).