Who was God?

In Matthew 3, God is revealed as the triune Creator and Sovereign Lord who publicly affirms His Son, Jesus Christ, during His baptism. The Greek word used for God is Θεός (Theos), a term that encompasses divine majesty, absolute power, and supreme authority. While God is one in essence, He is revealed in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

The Hebrew counterpart of the term “God” in the Old Testament is אֱלֹהִים (Elohim), often used to describe God’s power and plurality of majesty. In Matthew 3, we see all three persons of the Godhead simultaneously present and active—affirming the unity and distinctiveness of the Trinity.

Biblical Reference and Context

Matthew 3:13–17 describes the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. In this powerful moment, God the Father speaks from heaven, the Son is baptized in the Jordan River, and the Holy Spirit descends like a dove:

“As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.’” (Matthew 3:16–17, NIV)

This is one of the clearest moments in Scripture where the Trinity is revealed. God speaks audibly, expressing pleasure in His Son and affirming His divine identity and mission.

Cross-References

• Genesis 1:1–2 – God as Creator, with the Spirit of God hovering over the waters.

• Psalm 2:7 – “You are my Son; today I have become your Father.”

• Isaiah 42:1 – Prophecy of God’s chosen servant, in whom He delights.

• John 1:32–34 – The Spirit descending and God confirming Jesus as His Son.

• 2 Peter 1:17 – Peter recalls the majestic glory when God said He was pleased with His Son.

What Happened in Matthew 3?

At the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, He goes to John the Baptist to be baptized—not for repentance, as Jesus was without sin, but to fulfill all righteousness (Matthew 3:15). In this act, Jesus identifies with sinful humanity, foreshadowing His future atonement.

As Jesus comes up from the water, the heavens open. The Holy Spirit descends like a dove, symbolizing peace, purity, and divine anointing. Then the voice of God the Father declares His love and approval for His Son. This declaration confirms Jesus’ divine sonship, inaugurates His messianic mission, and gives witness to His identity before the people.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

God’s voice at the baptism of Jesus affirms that Jesus is the beloved Son in whom He is well pleased. For Christians today, this moment reinforces several foundational truths:

• Jesus is the divine Son of God—not merely a teacher or prophet, but God incarnate.

• The Trinity is real and active—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit work together in redemption.

• God is personal and communicative—He speaks, reveals, and affirms.

• Jesus’ mission was ordained by God—His baptism marks the beginning of a public ministry empowered by the Spirit and approved by the Father.

Believers can also take comfort in the fact that through Christ, they too are adopted as God’s children and are loved by Him (Galatians 4:4–7, Romans 8:15–17).

How God in Matthew 3 Points to Jesus and the Gospel

God’s declaration at Jesus’ baptism is a gospel proclamation: Jesus is the promised Son, the righteous One who will fulfill God’s plan of salvation. The descent of the Spirit is a sign that Jesus is the anointed Messiah (Luke 4:18). The Father’s voice confirms Jesus’ unique relationship to God and sets the stage for His redemptive work.

This moment also foreshadows the believer’s journey:

• Just as Jesus identified with sinners in His baptism, He would later bear their sins on the cross.

• Just as the Spirit came upon Him, believers are indwelt by the Holy Spirit at salvation.

• Just as the Father’s voice affirmed the Son, those who are in Christ are declared righteous and loved.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. The Trinity

Matthew 3 highlights the triune nature of God. The simultaneous presence of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit points to a central Christian doctrine—one God in three Persons, coequal and coeternal.

2. Divine Sonship

The baptism reveals Jesus as the beloved Son, echoing Old Testament prophecies and confirming His messianic identity. This sonship is central to salvation, for only the true Son can reconcile humanity to the Father.

3. God’s Revelation

God reveals Himself not only through Scripture but also through acts in history—here, He breaks the silence with an audible voice to affirm the One who will bring salvation to the world.

4. Covenant Fulfillment

Jesus‘ baptism marks the fulfillment of Old Testament promises. God had promised a Messiah who would be filled with His Spirit and would bring justice and righteousness (Isaiah 11:1–4; 61:1–2).

Reflection Questions

1. What does the baptism of Jesus reveal about the relationship between God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?

2. How does God’s affirmation of Jesus shape your understanding of Christ’s identity and mission?

3. In what ways does Jesus‘ baptism model humility and obedience for believers today?

4. How does understanding God’s delight in His Son encourage your walk with Christ?

5. What role does the Holy Spirit play in confirming your identity as a child of God?