The Spirit in Baptism
As we consider the meaning of Pentecost, which was a few days ago, and how the Spirit was active in Christ's life, let's remember that the Holy Spirit was especially present in Christ's baptism.
The Divine Confirmation at Christ's Baptism
In Matthew 3:16 we read that “As Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water and at that moment heaven was opened and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on Him.”
The Spirit descending on Jesus was a special moment, proving that He was anointed and approved of by God. The Spirit coming as a dove, by the way, represents purity. That's why we call Him the Holy Spirit. He is completely pure, and perfect.
And with the Spirit came the voice of God, saying, "This is my Son, whom I love; with Him, I am well pleased." And so we get this beautiful picture of Father, Son, and Spirit all at the same time, in three distinct forms.
Understanding Your Spiritual Foundation
Have you been baptized? Maybe you were baptized as a child, which symbolized the prevenient grace that we spoke of yesterday—God going ahead of you before you're aware—and then maybe had the chance to be confirmed, which is exactly what it says, confirming the truth of what happened at your baptism.
Maybe you were baptized as a believer later on, as an adult who came to know Jesus, and as a sign of your repentance and His work in your life, you were baptized into His family in a special moment. Either way, let's remember that the Spirit is especially present when we are baptized in water, and that this is a beautiful and important thing for us to go through as Christians.
Embracing the Spirit's Presence Daily
If you haven't done it, can I encourage you to get in touch with a minister and be baptized? I know you'll find great blessing in that. And if you've already been baptized, reflect for a moment on how the Spirit has been with you ever since your baptism.
Perhaps you've forgotten the important role that He's played in your life. Perhaps you've forgotten to call on Him for more infillings and special anointings and power being poured out into your life.
Friends, if you are a follower of Jesus and confess that He is Lord, it means the Spirit is in you. Live with that reality today, because in the end, that's what makes all the difference in the Christian life.
