Baptism of the Lord; Theophany
Archimandrite Nikifor’s Biblical Encyclopedia
(Matt. 3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21-22)—Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized. John protested, recognizing his own need, but Jesus answered that it was fitting “to fulfill all righteousness.” Although sinless and needing no repentance, Christ entered the waters in solidarity with the people and in obedience to the Father’s saving purpose.