Catechism Paragraph

¶ 536

The Baptism of Jesus is on his part the acceptance and inauguration of his Mission as God's suffering Servant. He allows himself to be numbered among Sinners; he is already "the Lamb of God, who Takes Away the Sin of the world". 232 Already he is anticipating the "baptism" of his Bloody death. 233 Already he is Coming to "fulfil all righteousness", that is, he is submitting himself entirely to his Father's will: out of Love he consents to this baptism of death for the remission of our Sins. 234 The Father's voice responds to the Son's acceptance, proclaiming his entire delight in his Son. 235 The Spirit whom Jesus possessed in Fullness from his conception Comes to "rest on him". 236 Jesus will be the Source of the Spirit for all mankind. At his baptism "the heavens were opened" 237 - the heavens that Adam's sin had closed - and the Waters were sanctified by the descent of Jesus and the Spirit, a prelude to the new Creation.

Linked Concepts

Catechism of the Catholic Church © Libreria Editrice Vaticana