Jesus’ Baptism

Summary

The Jesus Podcast — Episode: "Jesus' Baptism"

Host: Ethan (Pray.com)
Release date: July 24, 2026
Main Theme:
A powerful retelling and thoughtful exploration of Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist, blending cinematic storytelling, biblical fidelity, and spiritual reflection to illuminate why this event matters—both in Jesus’ life and for listeners today.

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Episode Overview

This episode launches a new mini-series focused on moments when Jesus “disrupted the status quo” to establish God’s kingdom. Today’s narrative and teaching center on Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River: what it meant for Jesus, John, and everyone witnessing, and how its spiritual meaning speaks to Christian identity, repentance, and new beginnings.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Setting and Personal Struggle of John the Baptist

• Beautiful, atmospheric storytelling brings listeners to the riverbank and into John’s emotions as he anticipates Jesus’ arrival, wrestling with his sense of destiny and humility.
• John’s Characterization:
  • Hermit in the wilderness, devoted by Nazirite vows (04:55)
  • Simple living, total focus on God and his mission
  • Faithful, yet overwhelmed by the immensity of baptizing the Messiah

“You have sustained me in the wilderness. You have made my path straight and set my heart on a firm foundation. Give me strength now to fulfill the calling you have placed on my life.” — John the Baptist (04:34)

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2. John’s Bold Preaching: Repentance and the Coming Kingdom

• John’s Message: Repent, prepare for the coming of the Lord (13:05, 13:49)
• Confrontation with Religious Leaders:
  • Direct challenge to the Pharisees and Sadducees, calling them a “brood of vipers,” demanding genuine repentance, not religious performance (14:55)
• Instructions to Seekers:
  • Share with the needy, practice fair dealings, and live with integrity (16:43–17:40)
  • Emphasis: True repentance produces changed behavior, not mere words

“You spend your days following customs, adding to the law that you might appear righteous before all of Israel. But hear this, the Lord desires that you produce fruit in keeping with repentance.” — John the Baptist (14:55)

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3. The Baptismal Encounter Between Jesus and John

• Personal, Relational Scene:
  • Candid conversation with gentle humor between Jesus and John as cousins (20:04–20:32)
  • John’s hesitation to baptize Jesus; Jesus gently insists for “righteousness” sake (21:11–22:09)

“My dear John, you've been faithful to my Father. You've chosen a life of humility and lowliness. Let it be so that you baptize me now. It is the proper thing for us to do, to fulfill all righteousness. Trust me, cousin.” — Jesus (21:50)

• John’s Reluctant Acceptance: Trusts Jesus’ request, highlighting humility and obedience over personal preference (23:01)

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4. The Baptism Event: Symbolism and Divine Affirmation

• Immersive, vivid description: The crowd, river, sun, tension, and awe (24:40–26:09)
• John presents Jesus:
  • Declares him the "Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world" (25:39)
• The Baptism:
  • John prays as he lowers Jesus into the water (28:10)
  • Upon Jesus’ rising, the Spirit descends like a dove, a voice speaks from heaven (28:52–29:37)

“Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.” — John the Baptist (25:39)
“And blessed are you, John, who has made straight the paths of the Lord.” — Jesus (28:48)
“This is my beloved son, with whom I am well pleased.” — Voice from heaven (00:00, 29:37)

• Dramatic signs:
  • Heaven opened, spirit like a dove, voice of the Father—all three persons of the Trinity are present
  • The crowd is filled with awe and deep wonder

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5. Spiritual Interpretation and Application (Host Reflection)

• Ethan’s Commentary:
  • Unpacks biblical text (Matthew 3:13–17); explains the theological significance (34:36–39:02)
• Key Themes:
  • Repentance is not just sorrow—it’s a change of direction, a “U-turn” for life (34:36)
  • John’s baptism was about preparing for a kingdom that is “here, now—not some distant promise”
  • Jesus’ submission to baptism models humility and solidarity: he identifies with our need, though sinless
  • Baptism as a symbol: dying to an old self, rising to new life; echo of what happens to every believer

“Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” — Jesus quoting Matthew 3:15 (Host, 34:36) "Just as Jesus identified with us through his baptism, he invites us to identify with him through our baptism, to die to our old selves and rise to new life in Him." — Ethan (38:30)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• John’s Prayer of Dependency:
  “Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who has carried me from my youth. … Give me strength now to fulfill the calling you have placed on my life.” — John the Baptist (04:34)

• John’s Confrontation:
  “You brood of vipers... the axe is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.” (14:55, 16:16)

• Affirmation from Heaven:
  “This is my beloved son, with whom I am well pleased.” — Voice from heaven (29:37/00:00)

• Jesus’ Call to John:
  "Let it be so that you baptize me now. It is the proper thing for us to do, to fulfill all righteousness. Trust me, cousin." (21:50)

• Host’s Application:
  “Repentance means to change, to turn around, to reorient your life. ... Repentance is like making a U-turn to get back on the right path.” — Ethan (34:36)

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• 04:34 — John’s dawn prayer of reliance as he waits for the day
• 13:05 – 14:05 — John’s proclamation to the people: calling for repentance
• 14:55 – 16:16 — John’s confrontation with Pharisees and Sadducees
• 16:43 – 18:01 — John’s practical instructions on repentance to ordinary people
• 20:04 – 23:01 — Intimate conversation between Jesus and John about baptism
• 25:39 – 29:37 — The baptism of Jesus: declaration, act, the descent of the Spirit, and God’s affirmation
• 34:36 – 39:02 — Host’s theological reflection and practical application

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Structure and Flow

Introduction

• Sets the stage for a series about the disruptive nature of Jesus’ ministry

Storytelling

• Cinematic retelling of John and the crowds, John and Jesus, and the actual baptism

Reflection and Application

• Host explains biblical background, clarifies the meaning of repentance, and extracts the lasting impact for modern believers

Closing Encouragement

• Listeners are invited to “live out their own baptism”: turn from sin, walk in newness, and claim their beloved identity in Christ

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In Summary

The episode uses evocative narration, authentic dialogue, and accessible spiritual teaching to bring Jesus’ baptism to life. Listeners encounter John’s doubts and devotion, Jesus’ humility and solidarity, and the empowering affirmation of the Trinity. The story climaxes with the heavens opening as God declares Jesus his beloved Son—an event not just of ancient history, but one with deep significance for every believer contemplating what it means to repent, belong, and serve in God’s kingdom.

“We are called to live out our own baptism every day. To turn away from sin, to walk in the newness of life, and to live with the assurance that we are God’s beloved children in whom he is well pleased.” — Ethan, Host (38:30)

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Transcript

[Narrator]

Behold, a voice out of the heavens said, this is my beloved son, with whom I am well pleased. Matthew 3:17 Dear Lord, we are struck with awe and wonder that you would choose us to redeem love and empower. Through you we have been given the approval of the Father, something we never would have earned on our own. Give us confidence in our identity. Make us unwavering in our resolve. We are children of God, adopted and cherished by the Creator of the universe. These truths are wonderful and humbling. Foster in us a deep understanding of our purpose and calling in light of these truths. Give us strength to carry out your will and wisdom, to discern your words from ours. At the end of it all, we're grateful. Grateful that you would send your son to die for us. Grateful that we can be called your children. Grateful that this life isn't dull or meaningless, but filled with color and purpose. In Jesus name, amen. Thank you for praying with me today. You're listening to the Jesus Podcast. Remain here for a new series on the Disruptor Gospel stories where Jesus disrupted the status quo to establish something greater. If you aren't yet following the podcast, go ahead and do so on whatever platform you're listening to. The air was frigid as John paced back and forth along the Jordan River. He could barely see a few feet in front of him, though he found solace in the gentle sounds of the water nearby. The sun had yet to rise over the hills, but despite a sleeping world around him, John was wide awake with vivid thoughts of the day ahead. His warm breath cast small wisps in front of him as his chest rose and fell slowly. His calm demeanor hid his racing heart and swirling thoughts. Over the past few weeks, John's life as a hermit had taken a sharp turn as he began to prepare the way for the Messiah, the man he had always called cousin. For as long as he could remember, John believed the words of his mother, telling him that Jesus was the Anointed One. But now that that day grew closer for Jesus to enter the public eye, he was having difficulty connecting the idea of the boy from his childhood being the Lamb of God who would take away the sins of the world. But this was only a small obstacle in John's mind, a simple reframing of his perspective and preconceived notions. His mother had often recited the words of John's purpose to proclaim to the world that the Messiah had come. The promise spoken to his father by the angel Gabriel now resonated in John's heart. As a child, he would sit with Jesus and dream of the day that they would get to fulfill their purpose. And now that time had finally come, and John could hardly believe it, John dipped his hand in a nearby stream and splashed it onto his face. The chilled evening air was already beginning to warm as dawn broke over the hills.

[John the Baptist]

Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who has carried me from my youth. You have sustained me in the wilderness. You have made my path straight and set my heart on a firm foundation. Give me strength now to fulfill the calling you have placed on my life.

[Narrator]

Though silence filled the black landscape, John sensed the Spirit's overwhelming presence surrounding him. Centuries ago, the prophet Isaiah wrote the words, a voice of one calling in the wilderness, prepare the way of the Lord. Make straight paths for him. And now, on a quiet morning in Galilee, the man of whom the prophet spoke was fulfilling those very words. Born in Judea, in a respected Jewish family and raised with a vigorous love for the Lord, John, often called the baptizer, spent his adult years in the tranquil solitude, the wilderness he had made his home in the heart of God's glorious creation, the heavens above his roof. He had chosen to clothe himself in a simple garment of camel fur fastened around his waist with a belt. His hair grew in long, ragged tufts, and when he wasn't praying or preaching, he would make his meals of locust and wild honey. An unsuspecting onlooker might have mistakenly assumed his lifestyle was the result of a few loose marvels. But all of these moves were calculated for the man who had dedicated himself to the Lord under the Nazirite vow. Each decision was a deliberate one, removing any unnecessary worries from his life like the mending of clothes or preparation of meals, giving his full attention to serving the Lord.

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[Ethan (Jesus Podcast Host)]

Jesus was sinless but identified with us in every way. We can walk with God confidently, knowing that he relates to us in our struggles and models what it means to repent and move forward. This is the Jesus Podcast. I'm Ethan with Pray.com join us as we begin a new miniseries on Jesus disrupting the status quo and showing us a way to live. This series showcases Jesus teachings and passions and we will learn about God's heart for people and for his kingdom. Today we're going to dive into the waters of the Jordan river and explore the moment when Jesus himself was baptized by John the Baptist. This event, recorded in Matthew Chapter three, is not just a simple dip in the water, but it's a profound moment packed with meaning and relevance for us today.

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[John the Baptist]

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[John the Baptist]

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[Narrator]

In what had become a usual day for John, lines had begun to form along the banks of the Jordan River. Despite the numbers, the people waited with bated breath in anticipation. Everyone wondered what the baptizer would preach today. John greeted them, then leapt into the water. The camel fur soaked through, leaving a stench that never bothered John. The crowd was too enthralled with his words to notice either. John's voice had a way of resonating. It pulsed with the tides of the river, flowing out of his mouth into the hearts of people.

[John the Baptist]

For generations, God's people have waited in faith for redemption. The heaviness of sin has weighed upon many hearts. The hands of our oppressors have grown strong, but our Lord has always proven Himself stronger.

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Praise Adonai. Blessed are you, O Lord.

[John the Baptist]

Yes, and no closer has our day of deliverance come than this day. Our Messiah is coming.

[Narrator]

More cheers rang from the boisterous gathering. Though John's words were inspiring, something else was stirring within them, something much more profound than a good speech.

[John the Baptist]

For this very reason, you must prepare your hearts to receive him, for he is coming to establish his kingdom and take the throne of David. I say to you this day, repent, for the kingdom of heaven is come near.

[Narrator]

As John finished these words, he noticed a jostling amongst the people pushing their way through the throngs. He saw a group of men dressed in fine robes, the unmistakable garments of the Pharisees and Sadducees. They too had come to listen to the baptizer. Though their stance on his teachings was questionable at best, John gave them ample time to push through so that they might stand in the front of the crowd for all to see, before speaking again, this time directing his words at them. This was the perfect platform for John to address the crowds from a different point of view.

[John the Baptist]

You there brood of vipers, making your way through the people like slithering snakes. The judgment of our Lord is coming. And who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? You spend your days following customs, adding to the law that you might appear righteous before all of Israel. But hear this, the Lord desires that you produce fruit in keeping with repentance.

[Narrator]

Scowls formed on their faces as an overflow of anger quickly took root in their hearts. It was evident that this attack struck a chord with the religious leaders, but before they could utter a rebuttal, the baptizer carried on.

[John the Baptist]

I know your ways. You don't fool me, and you certainly don't fool the Lord. Do not think you can say to yourselves, we have Abraham as our father, as though that alone is the key to your salvation. I take that God can breathe his spirit into these lifeless stones and raise up new children for Abraham.

[Narrator]

John was playing a dangerous game. These men held greater authority over the people of Israel, including himself. But his faith rose like a passionate flame, burning out any fear within him.

[John the Baptist]

The axe is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.

[Narrator]

There was an audible gasp from the people as they looked at one another, hoping to gain a deeper understanding of John's threatening metaphor. They wondered aloud if any of them were at risk of being one of these trees thrown into the fire.

[John the Baptist]

We want to produce good fruit for the the Lord.

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Baptizer, please tell us, what should we do?

[John the Baptist]

Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.

[Narrator]

Some of those who were tax collectors chimed in, knowing of their unique predicament among the people of Israel. Teacher, we know we've wronged God's people as you have called us to repentance, so we shall repent. Please tell us what we need to do.

[John the Baptist]

Though you have committed yourself to the work of Caesar, the Lord has not forgotten you.

[Ethan (Jesus Podcast Host)]

Honor the Lord.

[John the Baptist]

Remain honest men. When you stand in your booths, do not collect any more than you must.

[Narrator]

A ways off from the tax collectors, a group of soldiers began to speak.

[Jesus]

And what of us?

[Narrator]

We know how people view us. What should we do?

[John the Baptist]

Again I say to you, honor the Lord and all you do. Don't extort money from the people. Don't accuse people falsely. You hold authority over many people, but your hearts remain unsatisfied. Don't seek out the treasures of this world, but be content with your pay and what the Lord has provided you with.

[Narrator]

The people took in John's response, responses without question, hungry for the truth and in awe of one who would give it to them with such honesty and directness. But John could overhear the murmurings that resulted.

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Perhaps this is he of whom the Scriptures foretold.

[John the Baptist]

Could it be possible that John the baptizer is the Messiah?

[Narrator]

In hearing their words, he turned his attention back towards towards the whole of the gathering and steadied his tone.

[John the Baptist]

You have come to me in the wilderness to be made clean, and gladly I baptize you with water as an act of repentance. But after me comes one who is far more powerful than I, one whose sandals I am not even worthy to carry.

[Narrator]

The people pressed in, eager to soak in every word that flowed from John.

[John the Baptist]

Yes, I have baptized you with these very waters. But he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. The harvest time is drawing near and his winnowing fork is in his hand. He will clear his threshing floor, gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire.

[Narrator]

At these fathers words, his eyes shifted back towards the religious leaders. With looks of disgust upon their faces, they turned and disappeared back into the crowds. Over the coming days, word of John's address to the Pharisees and Sadducees spread through the region with a swiftness of a rushing. As the sun shone overhead. Jesus walked along the edge of the Jordan river with John, finding shade under the trees that reached their long arms over the water. Jesus had made his way from Galilee for a special visit.

[John the Baptist]

Tell me, how is your e ma?

[Jesus]

She's quite well. Of course. She sends her love. She would have sent some food too, but she couldn't find any recipes for locusts.

[Ethan (Jesus Podcast Host)]

I can't say I've found any to

[John the Baptist]

send back to her either. Tell me again, to what do I owe the pleasure of your company?

[Jesus]

Today is the day, cousin. The moment we've been waiting for.

[John the Baptist]

And what moment is that?

[Jesus]

My baptism, of course.

[John the Baptist]

I'm sorry. Your baptism.

[Jesus]

I've heard you started quite the movement out here, and I know you're very busy, but I figured you could squeeze me in as a family favor. Don't worry, I won't tell anyone that you allowed me to cut the lines with a wink.

[Narrator]

Jesus gave John a gentle nudge on his shoulder, but John didn't return the gesture. He thought back to his statement to the Pharisees and Sadducees, Though it was true that many were coming to John to be baptized, how could he be worthy enough to baptize the Messiah?

[John the Baptist]

I will admit that I have baptized more people than I can count, but with all due respect, I think you have it backwards. I need to be baptized by you. But here you are, coming to me.

[Jesus]

You seem to have no problem dunking my head under water down at the pools in Jerusalem at Passover when we

[Narrator]

were boys again, Jesus humor was met with a nervous uncertainty. But sensing John's uneasiness, Jesus gently placed his hands on John's shoulders and looked him in the eyes. John could feel his heart lighten as gentleness radiated from Jesus face.

[Jesus]

My dear John, you've been faithful to my Father. You've chosen a life of humility and lowliness. Let it be be so that you baptize me now. It is the proper thing for us to do, to fulfill all righteousness. Trust me, cousin.

[Narrator]

John thought for a moment, shifting his bare feet in the dirt underfoot. He knew that he had no reason not to trust Jesus. This wasn't a matter of questioning if Jesus was the Messiah. He had always known that. But could preparing the way for him really mean baptizing him along with all the other sinners? John took a steady breath before slowly exhaling. He desperately wanted to fight the words of Jesus as an act of humility, but he knew the reality was that in doing so he would only be feeding into his pride, allowing himself to believe that his ideas were more honoring to the Lord than the Messiah's.

[John the Baptist]

I cannot say that it still isn't a little difficult for me to understand, but I will trust you. If today is indeed the day of your baptism, well, I would be honored to be the one to do it.

[Narrator]

Jesus smiled. Looking at the man covered in camel fur before him, he couldn't help but see the young boy he had known Many years ago, Jesus knew that even the people closest to him would have much to learn during his time on earth. The pair made their way out of the brush to be greeted by the sun once again. They could see the usual formation of people a few yards away. Each morning, they would gather with eagerness to hear from the baptizer before stepping into the river's cool waters to be baptized in repentance. On most days, John would share this excitement. But today, his emotions felt intermingled as nerves collided with anticipation of this monumental moment. John could feel his heart rate elevating. Small drops of sweat formed on his brow from the heat. John made his way through the people, greeting each one like an old friend.

[John the Baptist]

Shalom, brothers and sisters. It's so good to see you. I'm sorry to have kept you all, but it seems like the wait will be well worth it Today.

[Narrator]

With a newfound peace, John glanced at Jesus with a smile, finally returning a knowing wink. Perhaps it was the anticipation that had led to John's previous nerves. But now, surrounded by others who had a sincere love of God and desired to see his kingdom come, he was confident in the Lord's guidance at this moment. Wading carefully into the Jordan, he stretched out his arm. The animated river coursed calmly around John's ankles. As he made his way to deeper waters. The light's reflection bounced off the surface like crystals, like a shimmering glimpse of the glory of God. John turned, murmured a prayer to God and stretched out his hand.

[John the Baptist]

You have asked if I am the Messiah. I have turned my head at such ideas. Enough to be an owl that I baptize you with water. The one who comes after me will baptize you with fire. The fire of God's spirit. I'm not even worthy to unstrap his sandals, let alone proclaim his coming to you today. Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.

[Narrator]

Emerging from the crowd walked Jesus. His entrance confused people. People as there was nothing remarkable about him. He wore craftsman's clothes and held himself without much authority. He waded into the water, the sun's light dancing with each wake. Upwards in his face, Jesus stood slightly taller than John. His smile was reassuring, so it filled John with peace. What a loving prompt. Jesus encouraged his cousin to begin.

[Jesus]

It is time. Enjoy this moment. The Lord is with you, with us. Pay close attention to what you're about to witness.

[Narrator]

Jesus spoke the very words that John didn't even know he needed to hear. With this encouragement, every uncertainty and question in John's mind seemed to melt away like snow at the first light of spring. And in their places, vibrant flowers of hope grew. The people watched as the baptizer took Jesus hand in his. Wrapping his arm around his back, John looked down at the water, the very same waters he had baptized many in. But this time, the water seemed to radiate in a way he had never before seen. Breaking away from his trance, John caught Jesus eye. Jesus looked at John and gave a simple nod. The time had come. John lowered Jesus into the waters. When he was below, John sighed a brief prayer.

[John the Baptist]

Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who has made a way for his people Israel. May our Savior rise with all the glory of the heavens above.

[Narrator]

In one solid motion, John pulled Jesus out of the water. Droplets cascaded through the air like diamonds. With a swift inhale, Jesus caught his breath, turned toward John, and wrapped his arms around him in a fond embrace. In a hushed whisper, Jesus shared his gratitude with his cousin.

[Jesus]

And blessed are you, John, who has made straight the paths of the Lord.

[Narrator]

All of a sudden, the leaves of the trees began to rustle as the shadows they cast upon the ground began to shift, tessellating the dirt with hues of green and yellow. Through the filter of the leaves above, the clouds that lingered in the sky began to separate. As eyes drifted to the skies, it seemed as though the heavens were opening up, a glorious parting like that of the Red Sea. The slow rumblings of panic set into the crowd, worried that a storm had swept in without warning.

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What's happening?

[Narrator]

Should we go?

[John the Baptist]

Looks like a storm is approaching.

[Narrator]

But their questions were answered in an instant. What they witnessed next caused their feet to remain planted to the ground like terebinth trees. From the newly parted heavens descended a blinding light, and with it, a great torrent of wind rushed around them. Yet to their surprise, the increasing conditions only seemed to calm their fears. As they squinted their eyes to peer through the bright lights, they could just make out the form of a dove descending down, working its way steadily but surely towards the man who had just come up out of the water. This ethereal being was none other than the spirit of God, come to rest upon and empower God's anointed one. Just then, the wind stilled. From the silence came a voice from the skies. Though no face could be seen, the sound was crystal clear and resonated within the people's chests. The brilliant lights began to fade back to the normal glow of the desert sun. The heavens closed like curtains. Unable to find words, the gatherers wondered if their eyes and ears had deceived them. But no one could deny what they had seen and heard. They were the first witnesses to God's declaration that he had sent his Son to rescue his people. What began with the commonality of the hundreds of other baptisms John had performed in the Jordan had quickly turned into a cataclysmic moment in Jesus ministry. This was an undeniable sign that the Messiah had come with the approval of the Father of Lights. Baptized with water but empowered by the Spirit, the Son of man had come, and he was getting ready to change the world.

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[Ethan (Jesus Podcast Host)]

Chronic migraine is 15 or more headache

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days a month, each lasting four hours or more. Botox Onobotulinum toxin a prevents headaches in adults with chronic migraine before they start. It's not for those with 14 or fewer headache days a month. It prevents on average eight to nine headache days a month versus six to seven for placebo.

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Prescription Botox is injected by your doctor. Effects of Botox may spread hours to weeks after injection, causing serious symptoms. Alert your doctor right away as difficulty swallowing, speaking, breathing, eye problems or muscle weakness can be signs of a life threatening condition. Patients with these conditions before injection are at highest risk. Side effects may include allergic reactions, neck and injection site pain, fatigue and headache. Allergic reactions can include rash, welts, asthma symptoms and dizziness. Don't receive Botox if there's a skin infection. Tell your doctor your medical medical history, muscle or nerve conditions including als, Lou Gehrig's disease, Myasthenia gravis or Lambert Eaton syndrome and medications including botulinum toxins as these may increase the risk of serious side effects.

[Ethan (Jesus Podcast Host)]

Why wait?

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Ask your doctor.

[Ethan (Jesus Podcast Host)]

Visit botoxchronicmigraine.com or call 1-844botox to learn

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[Narrator]

And breathe.

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[Ethan (Jesus Podcast Host)]

Let's start with a quick introduction to John the Baptist. John was quite the character. He was the son of Zacharias and Elizabeth, born to them in their old age. A miracle baby announced by an angel. He didn't just stroll into town to preach. He made his pulpit out in the wilderness of Judea. And his message? It was repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand. Now, repentance isn't a word we hear much outside of church, is it? Sometimes we think it means just feeling sorry for what we've done. But John's call to repentance wasn't about shedding a few tears and feeling guilty. No, repentance means to change, to turn around, to reorient your life. Imagine you're on a road trip and you suddenly realize you're headed in the wrong direction. Repentance is like making a U turn to get back on the right path. And why was John so urgent in his message? Because the kingdom of heaven was near as close as your hand. He wasn't talking about a far off dream or a distant promise. He was talking about something immediate. Something you needed to get ready for right now. John wasn't your average preacher either. He didn't dress in fine robes or dine in luxury. He wore camel's hair and lived on a diet of locusts and wild honey. He was a man on a mission, much like the prophet Elijah before him. His whole life was a call to wake people up from their spiritual slumber and prepare their hearts for the coming of the Messiah. And what happened when John preached, the people responded. Matthew tells us that Jerusalem, all Judea, and the region around the Jordan went out to him in Matthew, chapter three, verse five. Imagine the sight. Crowds of people confessing their sins and being baptized in the Jordan. It was a spiritual revival unlike any that Israel had ever seen. But then something unexpected happened. Jesus came from Galilee to be baptized by John. Now John knew who Jesus was. It was his cousin. He also knew that Jesus had no sin to confess. He had no need to repent. So naturally John tried to prevent him, saying, I need to be baptized by you. Are you coming to me? That's in Matthew, chapter 3, verse 14. But Jesus responded with words that have puzzled many. Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness. Matthew, chapter 3, verse 15. What did he mean by that? Jesus was showing us that he came to fully identify with us, with our humanity, our struggles, and yes, even our sin. Though he himself was sinless, he was stepping into our shoes, beginning his public ministry by symbolically taking on the sins of the world. As Jesus was baptized, something incredible happened. The heavens opened and the Spirit of God descended like a dove alighting upon him. And then a voice from heaven said, this is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased at. Matthew, chapter 3, verse 17. In this moment we see the beautiful harmony of the Trinity, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, affirming Jesus mission and identity. God the Father, with a voice of love and affirmation, declares his pleasure in Jesus. The Holy Spirit descends like a dove, symbolizing peace, purity and the gentle yet powerful presence of God. This scene at the Jordan river isn't just an ancient story. It's a picture of what happens when we come to God. Just as Jesus identified with us through his baptism, he invites us to identify with him through our baptism, to die to our old selves and rise to new life in Him. So as we reflect on the baptism of Jesus, let's remember that we are called to live out our own baptism every day. We're called to turn away from sin, to walk in the newness of life, and to live with the assurance that we are God's beloved children in whom he is well pleased.

[Narrator]

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