Baptism of Jesus Christ

Baptism of Jesus Christ

Baptism of Christ
Detail of John the Baptist baptizing Christ in the Jordan River, with the Holy Spirit descending in the form of a dove. Image credit: Holly Hayes.

Jesus reenters the Gospel narratives at about the age of 30 (circa 26 CE). The four gospels agree that Jesus' first act was to be baptized by John the Baptist, a charismatic and ascetic figure who called people to repentance and baptized those who responded. This event marked the beginning of Jesus' ministry.

After the baptism, several of John's followers left to follow Jesus. Jesus then selected several others until he had established a group of 12 disciples. (Two of these disciples, Matthew and John, are the traditional authors of the Gospels that carry their name.)