Matthew 3: John the Baptist Says Repent

Read Matthew chapter 3

Introduction: The third chapter of Matthew’s gospel is a very important moment in the true story of Jesus’ life and ministry. It introduces John the Baptist, the forerunner of the Messiah, and sets the stage for Jesus’ public ministry. This outline will reveal the wisdom contained in each verse of Matthew 3, making connections to other parts of the Bible to help us in our understanding of the chapter.

I. Matthew 3:1-2 – The Preaching of John the Baptist
John the Baptist appears in the wilderness of Judea, preaching a message of repentance in preparation for the coming kingdom of heaven (Isaiah 40:3). His message echoes the prophetic tradition of calling Israel to turn from their sins and return to God (Malachi 4:5-6).

II. Matthew 3:3 – Fulfillment of Prophecy
Matthew quotes Isaiah 40:3 to show that John the Baptist is the fulfillment of the prophecy concerning a voice crying in the wilderness, preparing the way for the Lord (Luke 3:4-6). This establishes John’s role as the one who prepares the people for the arrival of Jesus.

III. Matthew 3:4 – John’s Ascetic Lifestyle
John’s clothing of camel’s hair and diet of locusts and wild honey reflect his ascetic lifestyle, reminiscent of the prophet Elijah (2 Kings 1:8). This further connects John to the prophetic tradition and emphasizes his role as a messenger.

IV. Matthew 3:5-6 – John’s Baptism of Repentance
People from Jerusalem, Judea, and the region around the Jordan come to John, confessing their sins and being baptized by him in the Jordan River (Mark 1:5). This act of baptism symbolizes the washing away of sins and the desire for spiritual renewal.

V. Matthew 3:7-10 – John’s Confrontation with the Pharisees and Sadducees
John rebukes the Pharisees and Sadducees, calling them a “brood of vipers” and challenging their reliance on ancestry rather than true repentance (Luke 3:7-9). He points out to them, that God desires a change of heart and not just outward religious observance.

VI. Matthew 3:11-12 – The Coming of the Mightier One
John distinguishes his baptism with water from the one who will come after him, who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire (Acts 1:5). This points to Jesus’ superior ministry and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:13).

VII. Matthew 3:13-15 – Jesus’ Baptism by John
Jesus comes to John for baptism, and although John initially hesitates, Jesus insists that it is necessary to fulfill all righteousness (John 1:29-34). Jesus’ baptism marks the beginning of his public ministry and the confirmation of his identity as the Son of God.

VIII. Matthew 3:16-17 – The Spirit’s Descent and the Father’s Approval
Upon Jesus’ baptism, the heavens open, and the Spirit of God descends like a dove, while a voice from heaven declares Jesus as the beloved Son with whom God is well pleased (Mark 1:10-11). This divine affirmation confirms Jesus’ messianic identity and mission.

Conclusion: Matthew 3 gives us many topics related to repentance and righteousness, prophetic fulfillment, and the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. John the Baptist serves as the herald of the Messiah, calling the people to prepare their hearts for the coming of the Lord. Through baptism, confession, and the confrontation with religious leaders, the chapter sheds light on the importance of genuine heart transformation in anticipation of the arrival of the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. The chapter culminates with the beautiful scene of Jesus’ baptism, marking the divine affirmation of his mission to bring salvation to the world.