Mat 3:15 Suffer [it to be so] now...
Mat 3:15 Suffer [it to be so] now: for thus it becomes us to fulfill all righteousness. Alternative: Let it pass just for now,for in this manner it is clearly seen that we complete all that is required. On one level, Christ is telling John that his baptism is for them to complete what is required by the law and perhaps by prophecy. As a message to us, it says something more. This statement tells us:
- We must accept our lives, the world, and what is happening right now.
- We must be seen clearly to do what our situation requires.
- Our goal should be to complete everything that our purpose in life requires.
This statement outlines not only the basis of Christ's life but any of our lives. Is it an accident that these are the first words of the Gospels?
"Suffer" is from aphiêmi (aphiemi), which means "to let fall," "to send away," "to let loose," "to get rid of," "to leave alone," "to pass by," "to permit," and "to send forth from oneself." This is the same word that is usually translated as "leave" and "forgive" in the New Testament.
"Now" is from arti (arti) which means "just exactly," "just now," and "presently." "For" comes from gar (gar) which is the introduction of a clause explaining a reason or explanation: "for," "since," and "as." In an abrupt question it means "why" and "what."
"Becomes" is from prepô (prepo), which means "to be clearly seen," "to be conspicuous," "loud and clear (sounds)," "to be strong or rank (smells)," "to resemble," "to be conspicuously fitting," and "to be seemly."
"Fulfill" is from plêroô (pleroo), which mean "to fill," "to fulfill," "to make complete," "to pay in full," "to make pregnant," and "to fill full."
"Righteousness" is from dikaiosunê (dikaiosyne), which means "righteousness," "justice," and "the business of a judge." It carries the sense of virtue but specifically that of fulfilling legal or social requirements.
