Grow Guide | Jan 3, 2023

The Great Teacher 

Matthew 3:1-6, 13-17

Connecting Questions

·      What is the story of your baptism? Or what do you remember about a memorable baptism in your life?

·      Have you ever wondered why Jesus had to be baptized? What questions does his baptism bring up for you?

Context

This week we begin a new worship series called “The Great Teacher.” Each week we will focus on what we learn from Jesus through stories in the book of Matthew. We’re also in the liturgical season of Epiphany, which emphasizes how Jesus is revealed to us as the Messiah through scripture. The color of Epiphany is green, which symbolizes life and growth. How does this connect to Easter Lutheran Church’s mission statement, “To grow in faith and carry on the work of Jesus Christ?” What does Easter need to do as a community to keep learning, growing, serving, and living as our Teacher shows us?  

This week is also “Baptism of Our Lord” Sunday, when we hear the story of Jesus being baptized by John in the Jordan River. In this story, Jesus is revealed as the beloved Son of God. Through this story, we understand God’s love for us in baptism.

Look at the Book

• Read Matthew 3:1-6.

  • What details do you notice in these verses?

    • What is the setting?

    • How is John described? Why do you think he’s described in such detail?

    • What is John’s purpose?

    • What is the purpose of John’s baptisms? Why do people travel from all over to be baptized by him?

  • In Matthew chapter 1, the genealogy of Jesus reveals he is the fulfillment of the prophecy and the awaited Messiah. How does the quote from Isaiah in Matthew 3:3 continue to support this claim?

• Read Matthew 3:13-17.

  • Why do you think John initially hesitates about baptizing Jesus?

    • What does this tell us about our faith, if one of the prophets (John) has trouble understanding Jesus’ mission?

  • Jesus is baptized as a way for him to fully identify with sinners.

    • What does Jesus’ baptism mean for our baptism?

  • What happens when Jesus is baptized?

    • Why do you think God chooses to say what God says in this moment? What do God’s words reveal to us about Jesus, and about our own baptismal identities?

    • God’s voice is heard two different times in the book of Matthew: at Jesus’ baptism and at the Transfiguration in Matthew 17. Why do you think God chooses to speak in these moments?

Taking it Home

·      Every time you use water this week, take time to remember your baptism and how much God loves you.

·      Baptism sends us into the world as beloved people of God. What does your baptism inspire you to do with your life?