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Book of Matthew - Chapter 3 - Verse 14

3:14
But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?

Meaning

In this verse, John the Baptist is speaking to Jesus, who has come to be baptized by him. John felt unworthy to baptize Jesus, recognizing Jesus' superiority and purity compared to himself. John believed that he should be baptized by Jesus instead, as a sign of his reverence for Jesus and acknowledgment of his own sinfulness. The interaction between John and Jesus in this verse highlights John's humility and recognition of Jesus' divine nature. It also sets the stage for the importance of Jesus' baptism as a significant event in his ministry, symbolizing his identification with humanity and his mission to fulfill all righteousness. This verse showcases John's respect for Jesus and his understanding of Jesus' role as the Messiah.

Theological Overview

In this verse, we see John the Baptist expressing his humility and recognition of Jesus' divine nature. John, as a prominent figure in the New Testament, knew his role was to prepare the way for the coming Messiah through baptism. So, when Jesus approached him to be baptized, John was taken aback and felt unworthy to perform such a significant act on someone as holy as Jesus. John's response reveals his understanding of the superiority of Jesus and his own need for spiritual cleansing. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the concept of humility and reverence in the presence of God. Through John's words, we are reminded of the importance of recognizing our own sinfulness and inadequacy before the Lord, even when fulfilling our calling. This verse serves as a powerful example of surrendering to God's will and acknowledging His authority over our lives.

American Standard Version

But John would have hindered him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?
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