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Observe here, the solemn investing of Christ into his office, as Mediator, is attended with a threefold miracle; namely, the opening of the heavens, the descending of the Holy Ghost, and God the Father's voice concerning the son.
The heavens were opened; to show, that heaven, which was closed and shut against us for our sins, is now opened to us, by Christ's undertaking for us.
Next, The Holy Ghost descends like a dove upon our Saviour. Here we have a proof and evidence of the blessed Trinity; the Father speaks from heaven, the Son comes out of the water, and the Holy Ghost descends after the manner of a dove, hovering and overshadowing him. But why did the Holy Ghost now descend upon Christ?
First, for the designation of his person, to show that he was the person set apart for the work and office of a mediator.
Secondly, for the unction and sanctification of his person for the performance of that office. Now was he anointed to be the king, priest, and prophet of his church.
Lastly, we have here the voice of God the Father, pronouncing.
1. The nearness of Christ's relation: This is my Son.
2. The endearedness of his person: This is my beloved Son.
3. The fruit and benefit of this near relation unto us: In thee I am well pleased.
Learn hence, 1. That there is no possibility for any person to please God out of Christ; neither our persons nor our performances can find acceptance with God, but only in and through him, and for his sake.
2. That the Lord Jesus Christ is the ground and cause of all that love and good will which God the Father showeth to the sons of men.
In Christ, God is well pleased with us as a reconciled Father; out of him a consuming fire; Thou art my beloved Son, in thee I am well pleased.