Our Identity in Christ

In Matthew 3, we find a contrast between Pharisees (Jewish religious figures) and Jesus. There is a huge difference where they base their identity and authority. And it's a good reminder for us followers of Christ and Christian leaders on where our identity should lie:

1. Jesus did what was right and followed the process - When Jesus went to John to be baptized, John "tried to deter him." But Jesus insisted because "it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness" (v. 15). Being the promised Messiah didn't mean Jesus could cut corners, He modeled and fulfilled "all righteousness", He did what was right. He says in another passage that He didn't come to abolish the law but to fulfill it. The Pharisees on the other had displayed an outward and legalistic religiosity that was in the end self-serving. As leaders, we are to obey His commands from the heart and model a righteous life.