Divine Approval

This passage is Jesus' anointing, commissioning, and empowering for His ministry of salvation. It reveals the Father's public endorsement of the Son, and therefore, becomes the launch point for the rest of the Gospel. Jesus is anointed by the Father with the Holy Spirit, thus beginning His Messiahship. The words of the Father are vital for salvation. They show His unique approval of Jesus, whereby Jesus becomes the exclusive (and sufficient) means to accomplish the Father's redemption. The implication of the text for any person, is that it is essential we be found in Christ. For as we are, then the same declaration of the Father over the Son becomes the Father's declaration over us -- namely, that He is well pleased.