This book was written by John Mark a close companion of Peter. Mark calls his book ‘the Gospel of Jesus Christ’ (v1), gospel meaning ‘Good News’. He begins by clearly stating that Jesus is the Son of God. This means that Jesus was equal to God, of the same nature as God, He was God.

John the Baptist’s description (v2-8) bears close resemblance to the prophet Elijah (2 Kings 1v8). This emphasises that John is the last prophet come to prepare the way for Jesus by his preaching and baptism of repentance.

The Lord Jesus was so great; John was unworthy to do even the least menial task for Him (v7). Jesus was coming to cleanse not outwardly but inwardly through the Holy Spirit (v8). Baptism is the symbol of being cleansed from sin. Jesus did not need to be baptised for His own sake as He was sinless. In being baptised (v9), Jesus showed that He was identifying with sinners and the task of cleansing them from their sin.

As Jesus began His ministry (v10), He needed to be empowered with the Holy Spirit. The Father reassures the Son of His love (v11) which was important as Jesus was beginning a ministry which He knew would lead to the suffering of the cross. The Father is moved to speak of His pleasure at His Son.

What happens next (v12-13) shows what is very typical of the Christian life. After spiritual highs there often comes times of difficulty and temptation.