River Valley Church SOAP - Part 2Sample

The ministry of John the Baptist was a call for Jewish people to turn from their ways of casual obedience to the law and again purify their lives through water purification, or baptism. This custom was critical in their culture to be accepted by God. It demanded purification often done by water purification. Jesus though, without sin, did not see himself above this expectation. He was baptized in the River Jordan as prophesied. The Father then spoke with clarity and distinction for all to hear and validated His approval of His son prior to any miracles or good works being done. This is then exhibited in Jesus choice not to succumb to temptation but leaned into the identity given by his Heavenly Father and shaped by the Word of God.