What does this sacred river mean? It is the largest river in the Holy Land, the greatest river in Israel. The Jordan River is mentioned 175 times in the Old Testament and 15 times in the New Testament. It was in these waters that the Lord Jesus was baptised, and where many other miracles occurred, both in the Old and New Testaments.
The Jordan River is a dividing line – both literally and spiritually. It separates the Holy Land from the Jordanian desert and also marks a pivotal moment in the history of the people of Israel. When the Israelites crossed the Jordan, they became a nation: the nation of Israel. Similarly, many people today seek such a dividing moment in their lives. They long to turn the page, to free themselves from the suffering they face, but they do not know how to achieve this. Often, they accomplish significant goals such as obtaining a home, a marriage, or a dream career and think: “Now my life will be new!” However, after these achievements, they realise they are still living the same old life. This reflects a deep yearning for something that truly changes their life’s narrative – a real “before and after.”
“It came to pass in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptised by John in the Jordan. And immediately, coming up from the water, He saw the heavens parting and the Spirit descending upon Him like a dove. Then a voice came from heaven, “You are My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Mark 1:9-11)
It was in the Jordan River that the Epiphany occurred – the joint manifestation of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit on Earth. This river marked the beginning of the Lord Jesus’ ministry, demonstrating what God desires to do in people’s lives: to cleanse, renew, and offer the opportunity for a fresh start. For those who say: “I no longer want to live this way; can God forgive me?” the answer lies in baptism.
Baptism in water, also known as the baptism of repentance, is the path to transformation. Without it, a person may have a religion, attend church, and participate in church purposes, but unless they go through this process, they will never truly experience a new life.
The Bible provides numerous examples of people who sought Jesus for healing or miracles. However, only those who experienced sincere repentance received the greatest miracle of all: a transformed life. Zacchaeus is one example. He approached the Lord Jesus with a repentant heart, demonstrating a genuine desire to amend his wrongs (Luke 19:8-13). This kind of deep and sincere repentance is what opens the door to a new life.
This is why the Jordan River symbolises not only the greatest miracle – the new birth – but also other miracles, such as that of Naaman, who was cured of leprosy after washing seven times in its waters.
This campaign of faith aims to bring newness of life to those who are tired of suffering and have no one else to turn to but the God who promised: “Behold, I make all things new.” Join us on this journey of faith! Tune in Monday-Friday at 10 pm on Liberty Radio, where you will learn more about the significance of the Jordan River and unite your faith with ours through prayer.
Don’t miss this opportunity! Allow a turning point to happen in your life.
