John the Baptist, the son of Zechariah and Elizabeth, continues his preaching and baptizing people in the wilderness, calling them to repent and prepare for the coming judgment. He speaks boldly about the approaching kingdom of God and warns the religious leaders of their hypocrisy.
Jesus, now around thirty years old, comes from Nazareth to the Jordan River to be baptized by John. John initially hesitates, recognizing Jesus' superior identity, but Jesus insists, saying it fulfills all righteousness. As Jesus emerges from the water, the heavens open, and the Holy Spirit descends upon Him in the form of a dove. A voice from heaven declares Jesus as God's beloved Son.
After His baptism, Jesus is led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness, where He faces temptation from the devil for forty days and nights. The devil tries to entice Jesus with various temptations, but Jesus resists and remains steadfast in obedience to God's will.
Following the successful completion of His temptation, Jesus returns to Galilee in the power of the Spirit. News about Him spreads throughout the region, and He begins His ministry of preaching, teaching, and healing people from different illnesses and diseases. Crowds gather from various towns, and Jesus teaches in the synagogues, proclaiming God's message of salvation and reconciliation.
Chapter 3 concludes with Jesus' return to His hometown, Nazareth, where He enters the synagogue and reads a passage from the prophet Isaiah about bringing good news to the poor, proclaiming freedom to the oppressed, and healing the blind and brokenhearted. The people initially marvel at His wisdom and powerful words but later reject Him due to His humble upbringing.
Jesus moves on from Nazareth, continuing His ministry throughout Galilee and gaining a large following of disciples who witness His teachings, miracles, and compassionate care for the people.