Matthew 3:15 (KJV)

What does Matthew 3:15 mean?

Matthew 3:15 shows Jesus telling John the Baptist to allow His baptism to happen, explaining that it is necessary to "fulfil all righteousness." Jesus is saying that this act is the right thing to do in order to carry out God's will fully.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to John the Baptist, who has just hesitated to baptize Him because he feels unworthy. Jesus insists, saying that His baptism is important for completing everything that God requires. The verse highlights Jesus' choice to identify with people and obey God's plan, even though He Himself had no sin to repent of.

The Greek behind Matthew 3:15

• "Suffer" (ἄφες, aphēs): This word means "allow" or "permit." Jesus is gently telling John to let the baptism happen, even if it feels unexpected or uncomfortable.
• "Fulfil" (πληρῶσαι, plērōsai): This means "to complete" or "to carry out fully." Jesus is emphasizing that His baptism is part of completing everything God wants.
• "All righteousness" (πᾶσαν δικαιοσύνην, pasan dikaiosynēn): This phrase points to everything that is right in God's eyes. Jesus is saying that His baptism is part of living out God's perfect plan.

Why Matthew 3:15 matters

• Matthew 3:15 clears up why Jesus, who was without sin, chose to be baptized—it was not for repentance, but to fully obey God's will and set an example.
• This verse shows Jesus' humility and willingness to identify with humanity, even in situations where He did not personally need what was being done.
• The verse connects Jesus' actions to a larger theme in Matthew of fulfilling God's plans and promises, showing that every step in Jesus' life had meaning and purpose.