Why Was Jesus Baptized?

Remember that baptism not only symbolizes dying to an old life of sin, it also portrays the washing away of our sins by the blood of Jesus. At Pentecost, Peter told those who were seeking release from guilt:

“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.”
—Acts 2:38.

This brings up a question. Jesus never committed a single sin (2 Corinthians 5:21). Why, then, did He permit Himself to be baptized?

“Then JESUS CAME from Galilee TO THE JORDAN TO BE BAPTIZED by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, ‘I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?’ Jesus replied, ‘Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this TO FULFILL ALL RIGHTEOUSNESS.’ Then John consented. AS SOON AS JESUS WAS BAPTIZED, HE WENT UP OUT OF THE WATER. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.’”
—Matthew 3:13-17.