Read John 3:22-25
I’m Confused!
Jesus and his disciples went into the Judean countryside where he spent time with them baptizing people. In a nearby area, John was also baptizing people.
An argument broke out between some of John’s disciples and a certain Jew over ceremonial washing. Seeing John and Jesus baptizing was a new concept to them. Washing of water was traditionally a ceremonial washing carried out by the priests mentioned in Leviticus. It was essential for the priest to do this so as to be pure and holy before entering into the presence of God. Ceremonial washings were also carried out by those recovering from specific life events, such as a skin disease or childbirth.
So an argument broke out because apparently this man could not understand the concept of baptism by John and Jesus because it didn’t seem to go with the teachings of the ceremonial washings in Leviticus. He was confused! So what’s the difference?
Ceremonial washing was a cleansing performed for purification purposes.
John’s baptism was of repentance as he prepared the way for the Messiah.
Jesus’s baptism was a transition from John to him because he was the fulfillment of John’s preaching. Jesus’s baptism was also about repentance but was also about a coming salvation for one’s soul.
Jesus not only came to save us from our sins but also to provide us with His Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will empower us with what is necessary to overcome the obstacles of this world.
Have you experienced the power of Salvation for your soul? Have you experienced the power of the Holy Spirit in overcoming the bondage of sin? Surrender to his power today for the Salvation of your soul. But also surrender today and every day, and find Deliverance from ALL Sin.
