Who Are We Pleasing?

 N.T.#491 "Who Are We Pleasing?"

Feb. 20, 2025

Luke 3-Part 3

LET IT GLOW 

Who are we pleasing? Is God the one or is our self or others the one we strive to please? 

For some reason John reversed the order of him baptizing Jesus and John being put in prison. So let's skip to verse 21. It took place at the Jordan River. What a quiet place, with trees overhanging the water, and the water is not swift, but rather deep, so it is a green color. Can you picture that day? 

When Jesus came to John for him to baptize the Lord, John said that he was in need of baptism by Jesus, (not the other way around). Jesus told John to allow it to be or happen. Why? It was in order to fulfill all righteousness. (verse 15)This act of obedience was for Jesus to publicly consecrate Himself for His own ministry. Jesus received the new covenant. 

Jesus' baptism was not one showing repentance, for Jesus had no sin for which to repent. 

By identifying Himself with those whom He came to redeem, Jesus inaugurated His public ministry as the Messiah. Also, Jesus was a faithful Jew in regards to their Jewish religious observances: synagogue worship, attendance at feasts, payment of the Temple tax, etc. (Falwell)

Jesus is our example for obedience, showing we have a new heart as we follow God's will for our life. The old person has passed away whenever we get saved. We are a new creation in Christ Jesus.

Have you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior? Have you followed Him in baptism and obedience?

LET IT GROW

What happened at Jesus' baptism?

• Heaven was opened when Jesus prayed. (verse 21) What an extraordinarily special moment in time when earth and heaven were not separated.
• The Holy Spirit descended. A visible manifestation of the Holy Spirit validating the son's ministry for those present. 
• In bodily form like a dove. those present heard the voice of God expressing pleasure in Jesus and calling Him My Beloved Son.
• Thou art My Beloved Son: in Thee I am well pleased. (Ps. 2:7; Isaiah 42:1)

Aren't we striving to one day hear those words from our Savior? Are we following in His footsteps? Are we obeying the Holy Spirit? Are we fulfilling our purpose? Things to think about.

LET IT GO

Cleanse our hearts, Lord, make us like You.

Help us to forgive, to leave behind those things that hinder us from serving You.

How great is our God!