Matthew 3:1-17

Today's Reading is Matthew 3:1-17
During Jesus' time there were many many preachers calling for repentance like John. In every day and age you have people that are expecting the end of time to come soon so they need to join Isaiah in his call. Jesus comes to end that. He is the final revelation. (Barmen 1) With his appearance God has said everything and showed everything. Jesus tells John: “Let it be so for now. For in this way we shall do all that God requires.” Jesus sharing our common lot, repenting on our behalf, paying for our sins, that is all it requires. The baptism of John is one of repentance which is no longer necessary in Christ Jesus. A Christian baptism is there to "remind you and assure you that Christ's one sacrifice on the cross is for you personally". Then a voice said from heaven, “This is my own dear Son, with whom I am pleased.” in Christ that is true for all of us as well - no John necessary.