The verses below not only apply to Jesus’ baptism, but also to His time of ministry through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit whom He received at His baptism as well as some other themes. For other scriptures that center on being baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit, see “Being Baptized and Filled with the Holy Spirit.” For other scriptures that center on Jesus’ time of ministry, see “The Best Scriptures for a Festival of Tabernacles or Booths or Sukkot Messianic Service and Jesus Tabernacled Among Us” in the “God’s Word and the Best Scriptures to Use in 23 Special Worship Services” section of this reference work.
The best scriptures from the NIV Bible that can be used in a Baptism of the Lord Jesus Worship Service are listed for the 17 different ways that are given below. If you click or tap on one of them, it will take you to its location on this page.
Prayers and Acclamations of Praise to God
Assurances of God’s Pardon, Declarations of God’s Forgiveness, and Absolutions
Fellowship, Loving One Another, and Passing God’s Peace
Introductions to Scripture Readings
Introductions Before Offerings
Prayers of Requests and Thanksgiving
Affirmations, Encouragements, and Promises of God
Ascriptions and Self-Declarations by God
Since the following scriptures may contain an incomplete verse and have been removed from their contexts in the Bible, it is up to you to make the final determination if they will properly accomplish the purpose for which you are going to use them. Scriptures that are listed below that are incomplete will have an asterisk after their references.
The Best Calls to Worship for the Baptism of the Lord
10 “Shout and be glad . . . . For I am coming, and I will live among you,” declares the LORD. Zechariah 2:10*
68 “Praise be to the Lord . . . , because he has come to his people and redeemed them. 69 He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David 70 (as he said through his holy prophets of long ago), 71 salvation from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us—72 to show mercy to our ancestors and to remember his holy covenant, 74 to rescue us from the hand of our enemies, and to enable us to serve him without fear 75 in holiness and righteousness before him all our days. 77 to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, 78 because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven 79 to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.” Luke 1:68-72, 74-75, 78-79*
5 The devil led him [Jesus] up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. 6 And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. 7 If you worship me, it will all be yours.” 8 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’ ” Luke 4:5-8
35 Jesus . . . said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” 36 “Who is he, sir?” the man [who Jesus had healed from being blind from birth] asked. “Tell me so that I may believe in him.” 37 Jesus said, “You have now seen him; in fact, he is the one speaking with you.” 38 Then the man said, “Lord, I believe,” and he worshiped him. John 9:35-38*
Other Calls to Worship to Consider Using
6 With what shall I come before the LORD and bow down before the exalted God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? 7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousand rivers of olive oil? Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? 8 He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:6-8
37 On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” 39 By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. John 7:37-39a*
12 When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12
The Best Prayers of Adoration and Their Introductions
for the Baptism of the Lord
5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7 but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross! 9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:5-11
3 [T]he song of the Lamb: “Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the ages. 4 Who will not fear you, O Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed.” Revelation 15:3-4*
Other Prayers of Adoration and Their Introductions to Consider Using
11 “I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. 12 I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.” 13 Your ways, God, are holy. What god is as great as our God? 14 You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples. Psalm 77:11-14
15 [Y]ou, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. Psalm 86:15*
The Best Prayers and Acclamations of Praise to God and Their Introductions for the Baptism of the Lord
1 We praise you, God, we praise you, for your Name is near; people tell of your wonderful deeds. Psalm 75:1
1 It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High, 2 proclaiming your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night, 4 For you make me glad by your deeds, LORD; I sing for joy at what your hands have done. 5 How great are your works, LORD, how profound your thoughts! Psalm 92:1-2, 4-5
1 I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever. 2 Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever. 4 One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts. 5 They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty—and I will meditate on your wonderful works. 6 They tell of the power of your awesome works—and I will proclaim your great deeds. 7 They celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness. 10 All your works praise you, LORD; your faithful people extol you. 11 They tell of the glory of your kingdom and speak of your might, 12 so that all people may know of your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of your kingdom. 13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. Psalm 145:1-2, 4-7, 10-13a
11 Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him. 12 As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, “Don’t cry.” 14 Then he went up and touched the bier they were carrying him on, and the bearers stood still. He said, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” 15 The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother. 16 They were all filled with awe and praised God. “A great prophet has appeared among us,” they said. “God has come to help his people.” 17 This news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and the surrounding country. Luke 7:11-17
35 As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. 38 He called out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 40 Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him. When he came near, Jesus asked him, 41 “What do you want me to do for you?” “Lord, I want to see,” he replied. 42 Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has healed you.” 43 Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, praising God. When all the people saw it, they also praised God. Luke 18:35, 38, 40-43
37 When he [Jesus] came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen: 38 “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” 39 Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples!” 40 “I tell you,” he replied, “if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.” Luke 19:37-40
Other Prayers and Acclamations of Praise to God and Their
Introductions to Consider Using
8 Among the gods there is none like you, Lord; no deeds can compare with yours. 9 All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, Lord; they will bring glory to your name. 10 For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God. Psalm 86:8-10
13 Your arm is endowed with power; your hand is strong, your right hand exalted. 14 Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you. 15 Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, LORD. 16 They rejoice in your name all day long; they celebrate your righteousness. 17 For you are their glory and strength, Psalm 89:13-17*
1 LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done wonderful things, things planned long ago. Isaiah 25:1
1 Jesus stepped into a boat, crossed over and came to his own town. 2 Some men brought to him a paralyzed man, lying on a mat. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the man, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.” 3 At this, some of the teachers of the law said to themselves, “This fellow is blaspheming!” 4 Knowing their thoughts, Jesus said, “Why do you entertain evil thoughts in your hearts? 5 Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? 6 But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” So he said to the paralyzed man, “Get up, take your mat and go home.” 7 Then the man got up and went home. 8 When the crowd saw this, they were filled with awe; and they praised God, who had given such authority to man. Matthew 9:1-8
The Best Introductions to Singing for the Baptism of the Lord
1 We praise you, God, we praise you, for your Name is near; people tell of your wonderful deeds. 9 As for me, I will declare this forever; I will sing praise to . . . God . . . , Psalm 75:1, 9*
5 “Sing to the LORD, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world. 6 Shout aloud and sing for joy . . . for great is the Holy One . . . among you.” Isaiah 12:5-6*
9 Burst into songs of joy together . . . for the LORD has comforted his people . . . . 10 The LORD will lay bare his holy arm in the sight of all the nations, and all the ends of the earth will see the salvation of our God. Isaiah 52:9-10*
Other Introductions to Singing to Consider Using
3 Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. 4 One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts. 7 They celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness. Psalm 145:3-4, 7
13 Shout for joy, you heavens; rejoice, you earth; burst into song, you mountains! For the LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones. Isaiah 49:13
The Best Confessions of Sin and Their Introductions
for the Baptism of the Lord
9 Who can say, “I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin”? Proverbs 20:9
2 “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word.” Isaiah 66:2b*
7 From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” Matthew 4:17
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 9 The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. John 1:1, 4, 9-11
19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. John 3:19
22 “If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin; but now they have no excuse for their sin.” John 15:22
23 [E]verything that does not come from faith is sin. Romans 14:23*
18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, Ephesians 5:18
7 Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he [Christ] is righteous. 8 The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work. 1 John 3:7-8
Other Confessions of Sin and Their Introductions to Consider Using
6 “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” James 4:6b*
5 All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5b*
The Best Assurances of Pardon, Declarations of God’s Forgiveness, and Absolutions for the Baptism of the Lord
29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29
15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners . . . . 1 Timothy 1:15*
4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. Titus 3:4-7
Other Assurances of Pardon, Declarations of God’s
Forgiveness, and Absolutions to Consider Using
21 “[T]here is no God apart from me, a righteous God and a Savior; there is none but me. 22 “Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.” Isaiah 45:21d-22*
10 “[T]he Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10*
24 “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.” John 5:24
3 “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” John 17:3
The Best Scriptures on Fellowship, Loving One Another, and Passing
God’s Peace for the Baptism of the Lord
22 They ate and drank with great joy in the presence of the LORD that day. 1 Chronicles 29:22a*
9 This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 11 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 1 John 4:9-11
Other Scriptures on Fellowship, Loving One Another,
and Passing God’s Peace to Consider Using
18 The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Proverbs 12:18
The Best Introductions to Scripture Readings for the Baptism of the Lord
The maximum number of scriptures that are usually listed for a way to use them in a worship service are about 10. But there are so many scriptures that can be used to introduce the Scripture readings in a worship service of the Baptism of the Lord that there are many more than this listed below.
2 “The Spirit of the LORD spoke through me; his word was on my tongue.” 2 Samuel 23:2
111 Your statutes are my heritage forever; they are the joy of my heart. 112 My heart is set on keeping your decrees to the very end. Psalm 119:111-112
17 This is what the LORD says—your Redeemer, the Holy One . . . : “I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.” Isaiah 48:17*
10 “As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, 11 so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:10-11
4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’ ” Matthew 4:4
34 [T]he one whom God has sent speaks the words of God . . . . John 3:34*
63 “The words I [Jesus] have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life.” John 6:63b*
68 Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” John 6:68
16 Jesus answered, “My teaching is not my own. It comes from the one who sent me. 17 Anyone who chooses to do the will of God will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own.” John 7:16-17
26 “[H]e who sent me is trustworthy, and what I have heard from him I tell the world.” 28 So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he and that I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me.” John 8:26b, 28*
49 “[T]he Father who sent me commanded me to say all that I have spoken. 50 So whatever I say is just what the Father has told me to say.” John 12:49, 50b*
37 Jesus answered, “. . . . [T]he reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” John 18:37bcd*
Other Introductions to Scripture Readings to Consider Using
151 [Y]ou are near, LORD, and all your commands are true. Psalm 119:151
16 When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, LORD God Almighty. Jeremiah 15:16
28 “[T]here is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries.” Daniel 2:28a*
28 When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, 29 because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law. Matthew 7:28-29
21 They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. 22 The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law. Mark 1:21-22
15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15
The Best Introductions Before Offerings for the Baptism of the Lord
6 With what shall I come before the LORD and bow down before the exalted God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? 7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousand rivers of olive oil? Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? 8 He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:6-8
6 [G]odliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 1 Timothy 6:6-8*
Other Introductions Before Offerings to Consider Using
10 David praised the LORD in the presence of the whole assembly, saying, “Praise be to you, LORD, the God . . . from everlasting to everlasting. 11 Yours, LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. 12 Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. 13 Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. 14 But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.” 1 Chronicles 29:10-14
7 Ascribe to the LORD, all you families of nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. 8 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; bring an offering and come into his courts. 9 Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness; tremble before him, all the earth. Psalm 96:7-9
6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 2 Corinthians 9:6-8
The Best Prayers of Dedication and Their Introductions
for the Baptism of the Lord
The maximum number of scriptures that are usually listed for a way to use them in a worship service are about 10. But there are so many of “The Best Prayers of Dedication and Their Introductions” that apply very well for a worship service of the Baptism of the Lord that there are many more than this listed below.
6 “ ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty.” Zechariah 4:6*
25 Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 26 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:25-28
42 Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 43 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:42-45
30 “I seek not to please myself but him who sent me.” John 5:30*
32 “We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.” Acts 5:32
31 [W]hatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31*
58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58
6 The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. Galatians 5:6b*
18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, Ephesians 5:18
7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7
11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, Titus 2:11-12
Other Prayers of Dedication and Their Introductions to Consider Using
13 You must be blameless before the LORD your God. Deuteronomy 18:13
6 The Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him . . . . Judges 14:6*
19 Then the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him. Judges 14:19a*
14 The Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him. Judges 15:14b*
7 How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say . . . , “Your God reigns!” Isaiah 52:7*
24 “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” Matthew 6:24
13 “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” Luke 16:13
20 Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, 21 nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst.” Luke 17:20-21
16 “They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.” John 17:16
28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Romans 12:11
20 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power. 1 Corinthians 4:20
7 In everything set them an example by doing what is good. Titus 2:7a*
3 It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it. 3 John 3
The Best Prayers of Thanksgiving and Their Introductions
for the Baptism of the Lord
1 We praise you, God, we praise you, for your Name is near; people tell of your wonderful deeds. Psalm 75:1
1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. 2 Let the redeemed of the LORD tell their story—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe, 8 Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind, Psalm 107:1-2, 8
15 Shouts of joy and victory resound in the tents of the righteous: “The LORD’s right hand has done mighty things! 16 The LORD’s right hand is lifted high; the LORD’s right hand has done mighty things!” Psalm 118:15-16
Other Prayers of Thanksgiving and Their Introductions to Consider Using
1 I love you, LORD, my strength. Psalm 18:1
31 Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind. Psalm 107:31
1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good. His love endures forever. 2 Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever. 3 Give thanks to the LORD of lords: His love endures forever. 4 to him who alone does great wonders, His love endures forever. Psalm 136:1-4
The Best Prayers of Requests and Their Introductions
for the Baptism of the Lord
1 Hear us, Shepherd . . . , you who lead . . . a flock. You who sit enthroned between the cherubim, shine forth 2 Awaken your might; come and save us. 3 Restore us, O God; make your face shine on us, that we may be saved. Psalm 80:1, 2b-3*
10 Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” John 4:10
7 During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Hebrews 5:7
16 The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16b*
21 [W]e have confidence before God 22 and receive from him anything we ask, because we keep his commands and do what pleases him. 1 John 3:21-22*
14 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 15 And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him. 1 John 5:14-15
Other Prayers of Requests and Their Introductions to Consider Using
3 Send me your light and your faithful care, let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. 4 Then I will go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you . . . O God, my God. Psalm 43:3-4*
18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. Ephesians 6:18a*
12 “[T]he eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” 1 Peter 3:12*
The Best Prayers of Requests and Thanksgiving and Their
Introductions for the Baptism of the Lord
3 Send me your light and your faithful care, let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. 4 Then I will go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you . . . O God, my God. Psalm 43:3-4*
23 After he [Jesus] had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Matthew 14:23a*
35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Mark 1:35
46 After leaving them, he [Jesus] went up on a mountainside to pray. Mark 6:46
16 Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. Luke 5:16*
12 One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. Luke 6:12
28 [H]e [Jesus] took Peter, John and James with him and went up onto a mountain to pray. Luke 9:28*
Other Prayers of Requests and Thanksgiving and Their
Introductions to Consider Using
1 One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. Luke 11:1a*
12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Romans 12:12
The Best Affirmations, Encouragements, and Promises of God
for the Baptism of the Lord
2 The LORD has made his salvation known and revealed his righteousness to the nations. 3 He has remembered his love and his faithfulness . . . ; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. Psalm 98:2-3*
1 “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you. 2 See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the LORD rises upon you and his glory appears over you.” Isaiah 60:1-2
1 The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, 2 to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor . . . , to comfort all who mourn, 3 and provide for those who grieve . . . —to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor. Isaiah 61:1-3*
10 “Shout and be glad . . . . For I am coming, and I will live among you,” declares the LORD. 11 “I will live among you and you will know that the LORD Almighty has sent me to you.” Zechariah 2:10, 11b*
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. 16 Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. John 1:1, 14, 16
6 For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ. 2 Corinthians 4:6
Other Affirmations, Encouragements, and Promises of God to Consider Using
3 Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. Proverbs 16:3
23 “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Mark 9:23b*
27 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.” Mark 10:27
10 “[T]he Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10*
11 [T]he grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. Titus 2:11*
The Best Exhortations for the Baptism of the Lord
The maximum number of scriptures that are usually listed for a way to use them in a worship service are about 10. But there are so many of “The Best Exhortations” that apply very well for a worship service of the Baptism of the Lord that there are many more than this listed below.
5 Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: 6 He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun. Psalm 37:5-6
7 How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say . . . , “Your God reigns!” Isaiah 52:7*
8 He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8
6 “ ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty.” Zechariah 4:6*
26 “[W]hoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:26b-28*
43 “[W]hoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:43b-45*
31 [W]hatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31*
58 [M]y dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58*
16 [W]alk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. Galatians 5:16*
1 I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Ephesians 4:1*
15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Ephesians 5:15-17
18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, Ephesians 5:18
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Ephesians 6:10
11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, Titus 2:11-12
7 Submit yourselves . . . to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. James 4:7-8a*
27 As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you . . . . [A]nd as that anointing is real, not counterfeit—just as it has taught you, remain in him. 1 John 2:27*
Other Exhortations to Consider Using
21 “March on, my soul; be strong!” Judges 5:21b*
12 Remember the wonders he [the LORD] has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced, 1 Chronicles 16:12
31 Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind. 32 Let them exalt him in the assembly of the people and praise him in the council of the elders. Psalm 107:31-32
11 [W]hat kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives 2 Peter 3:11*
The Best Ascriptions and Self-Declarations by God
for the Baptism of the Lord
The maximum number of scriptures that are usually listed for a way to use them in a worship service are about 10. But there are many of “The Best Ascriptions and Self-Declarations by God” that apply well for a worship service of the Baptism of the Lord so there are more than this listed below.
19 Praise be to the LORD, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens. 20 Our God is a God who saves; from the Sovereign LORD comes escape from death. Psalm 68:19-20
14 You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples. 15 With your mighty arm you redeemed your people . . . . Psalm 77:14-15*
8 The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. 9 The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made. 10 All your works praise you, LORD; your faithful people extol you. 11 They tell of the glory of your kingdom and speak of your might, 12 so that all people may know of your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of your kingdom. 13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. Psalm 145:8-13a*
10 “You are my witnesses,” declares the LORD, “and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me. 11 I, even I, am the LORD, and apart from me there is no savior. 12 I have revealed and saved and proclaimed—I, and not some foreign god among you.” Isaiah 43:10-12a*
10 The LORD will lay bare his holy arm in the sight of all the nations, and all the ends of the earth will see the salvation of our God. Isaiah 52:10
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:1, 14
6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6
24 Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 1 Corinthians 1:24*
5 To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, 6 and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen. Revelation 1:5b-6*
3 [T]he song . . . of the Lamb: “Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations. 4 Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed.” Revelation 15:3-4*
Other Ascriptions and Self-Declarations by God to Consider Using
21 [T]he LORD your God, who is among you, is a great and awesome God. Deuteronomy 7:21*
9 “He [God] performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted.” Job 5:9
10 “He [God] performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted.” Job 9:10
8 The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. 10 he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. 11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; 12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. 13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him; Psalm 103:8, 10-13
6 “[M]y salvation will last forever, my righteousness will never fail.” Isaiah 51:6b*
5 “I am the light of the world.” John 9:5*
The Best Benedictions and Blessings for the Baptism of the Lord
16 Out of his [the Son’s] fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. 17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known. John 1:16-18
Other Benedictions and Blessings to Consider Using
29 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. 30 For my eyes have seen your salvation, 31 which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: 32 a light for revelation . . . and the glory of your people . . . .” Luke 2:29-32*