Is it that time again already?...FDREL121 - The Baptism of Christ

Review Matthew 3:13-17 and the institute student manual commentary for Matthew 3:16, “What Is the Significance of the Holy Ghost Descending ‘like a Dove’?” (pg. 28-29). Then write answers to the following questions:

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     Why was John hesitant to baptize Jesus? John was hesitant because he knows the Savior and of His divinity. He doesn’t feel worthy to do this act for such a perfect person. As you ponder the significance of baptism, the way John acted makes more sense. Just like he says in Matthew 3:14, “I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?” Why would such a perfect person need to be baptized? For the first time I put myself in John’s place. I think it’s really a testament to John’s humility rather than his hesitation to just follow what Christ asked of him.

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     What is taught here about the Holy Ghost? Although these verses don’t really say much about the Holy Ghost, the biggest thing I took away personally was how the dove represents peace. I looked up online to see if the dove symbolized anything else. I found that the dove also symbolizes tenderness and affection. Considering what we already know about the role of the Holy Ghost and that he is a comforter, I thought it fit wonderfully. Along with that, this scripture teaches us that the Holy Ghost is a separate member of the Godhead and also that he does not have a body of flesh and bones.

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      Jesus Christ said He must be baptized to “fulfill all righteousness.” List three reasons why Jesus Christ was baptized (see 2 Nephi 31:6-11)

1.      He was baptized to show that he had humbled himself before God.
2.      He showed that he was obedient in keeping God’s commandments.
3.      Christ set an example for the rest of mankind and showed “the straitness of the path, and narrowness of the gate, by which they should enter.”

·         What evidence is found in Matthew 3:16-17 that the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are three separate personages in the Godhead? In these few verses we see the presence or manifestation of all three members. First, we see Jesus Christ in the water being baptized. Second, comes the Spirit down from heaven as a dove. Third, and probably the most important, is the voice of Heavenly Father who says, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” This is simple yet powerful evidence to me that they are separate personages creating the Godhead. Not only does it show me that, but that we also have a loving Heavenly Father and Heavenly Family.