Why Did Jesus Need to be Baptized?

Matthew 3:13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. 14 And John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?” 15 But Jesus answered and said to him, “Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him.

Jesus' baptism was so important for us.  Now, baptism does not save us.  It does not physically change us.  It is a symbolic act of obedience that represents our old carnal man going under the waters (death) and being raised a new man in Christ, washed from sin.  So, why Jesus?  John had the same reaction most of us would have by this.
Jesus said, permit Me to do so for it is right.  Jesus had no sin.  
I believe Jesus was baptized for identification with us.  He that knew no sin became sin for us that we might be the righteousness of God in Him.  
I believe He also showed Gods approval upon John's ministry as the Forerunner to the Messiah.  What a seal of approval this had to be and a humbling awareness of John.  
In Jesus' words, He had to do this for the purpose of obedience to the Father.  It was a righteous command.
Now, though baptism doesn't save us, it is commanded.  Its the easiest 1st opportunity to obey God.  Why wouldn't you want to obey Him in this?  I don't believe you can be Christ' disciple and refuse to be Baptized.  The thief on the cross could not but if he had the opportunity, I'm sure he would have, because followers of Jesus follow Jesus.


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