Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3 – Faithful Resources for Come, Follow Me 2023 Week 5

Mark’s identity: among the authors of the Gospels, we know the least about Mark. We know that he was a missionary companion of Paul, Peter, and several other missionaries. Many biblical scholars believe that Peter directed Mark to record the events of the Savior’s life. Mark’s Gospel was likely written before the other three. See the Bible Dictionary, “Mark.”

Pharisees and Sadducees: the Pharisees were members of a Jewish religious party who prided themselves on strict observance of the law of Moses and its rituals. The Sadducees were a wealthy Jewish class with great religious and political influence; they did not believe in the doctrine of resurrection. Both groups had strayed from the original intent of God’s laws. Matthew 23:23–28; Bible Dictionary, “Pharisees,” “Sadducees.”

Repentance is a mighty change of mind and heart. Matthew 3:1–12; Mark 1:1–8; Luke 3:2–18 (Matthew 3:2). (see Luke 3:9, 17 . What other images do you find in the accounts of John the Baptist’s ministry? (see Matthew 3:1–12; Mark 1:1–8; Luke 3:2–18).  See Luke 3:7–14, especially Luke 3:8.

Jesus Christ was baptized to “fulfil all righteousness.”  Matthew 3:11, 13–17; Mark 1:9–11; Luke 3:15–16, 21–22  See also 2 Nephi 31; Mosiah 18:8–11; Doctrine and Covenants 20:37, 68–74; “The Baptism of Jesus” (video), ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

The members of the Godhead are three separate beings.  Matthew 3:16–17; Mark 1:9–11; Luke 3:21–22 The Bible contains numerous evidences that the members of the Godhead are three separate beings. The accounts of the Savior’s baptism are one example. See also Genesis 1:26; Matthew 17:1–5; John 17:1–3; Acts 7:55–56; Doctrine and Covenants 130:22.