the need for repentance in anticipation of this event which John proclaimed, were affirmed by Jesus through baptism. Third, by being baptized, Jesus condemned the self-righteous for their lack of repentance and took a stand with the penitent publicans and sinners awaiting the kingdom of God (Luke 7:29–30). Fourth, Jesus stepped forward for baptism not as an individual in need of forgiveness but as the Messiah, as a representative of the people before God. His baptism therefore demonstrated solidarity