The beginning of Jesus' ministry marks a pivotal moment in the New Testament narrative, signifying the commencement of His public work and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. This period is characterized by key events that establish Jesus' authority, mission, and the inauguration of the Kingdom of God.

Baptism by John the Baptist

The ministry of Jesus begins with His baptism by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. This event is recorded in all four Gospels, highlighting its significance. In Matthew 3:13-17 , Jesus approaches John, who initially hesitates, saying, "I need to be baptized by You, and do You come to me?" Jesus responds, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness." As Jesus is baptized, the heavens open, and the Spirit of God descends like a dove, while a voice from heaven declares, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." This divine affirmation establishes Jesus' identity and mission.

Temptation in the Wilderness

Following His baptism, Jesus is led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where He fasts for forty days and nights and is tempted by the devil. This account is detailed in Matthew 4:1-11 . The temptations challenge Jesus' identity and mission, as Satan entices Him to turn stones into bread, throw Himself from the temple, and worship Satan in exchange for the kingdoms of the world. Jesus resists each temptation by quoting Scripture, demonstrating His obedience to the Father and His reliance on the Word of God. This victory over temptation underscores Jesus' sinlessness and readiness to begin His public ministry.

Calling of the First Disciples

As Jesus begins His ministry, He calls His first disciples, establishing the foundation for His future Church. In Matthew 4:18-22 , Jesus encounters Simon Peter and his brother Andrew casting nets into the sea. He calls them, saying, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." Immediately, they leave their nets and follow Him. Similarly, He calls James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who also leave their boat and father to follow Jesus. This calling signifies the beginning of a new community centered around Jesus and His teachings.

Teaching and Miracles

Jesus' ministry is marked by His authoritative teaching and miraculous works, which authenticate His message and reveal His divine nature. In Matthew 4:23-25 , Jesus travels throughout Galilee, teaching in synagogues, proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. His fame spreads, and large crowds follow Him, drawn by His words and deeds. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) further exemplifies His teaching, where He expounds on the law, righteousness, and the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Fulfillment of Prophecy

The beginning of Jesus' ministry fulfills numerous Old Testament prophecies, affirming His messianic identity. In Luke 4:16-21 , Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah in the synagogue of Nazareth, declaring, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor." He concludes by stating, "Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing." This declaration aligns His mission with the prophetic expectations of a Savior who brings liberation and healing.

Proclamation of the Kingdom of God

Central to Jesus' ministry is the proclamation of the Kingdom of God. In Mark 1:14-15 , Jesus begins His ministry in Galilee, preaching, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe in the gospel." This message calls for a response of repentance and faith, inviting individuals to enter into a new relationship with God through Jesus Christ. The Kingdom of God, as presented by Jesus, is both a present reality and a future hope, characterized by God's reign in the hearts of believers and the ultimate restoration of creation.

The beginning of Jesus' ministry sets the stage for His redemptive work, revealing His identity as the Son of God and the promised Messiah. Through His baptism, temptation, calling of disciples, teaching, miracles, and fulfillment of prophecy, Jesus inaugurates a new era in salvation history, inviting all to partake in the Kingdom of God.