went up straightway out of the water, and lo, the heavens were opened] Or, assoon as he came up out of the water, lo, the heavens were opened. An usuall introduction to solemn visions, Ezekiel 1:1. John 1:51. Acts 7:56. This was done now, that John and Christ might see the dove descend, and hear the voyce coming from thence. unto him] To John, John 1:32. the Spirit of God descending] To assure John that this was the true Messias, John 1:33. and to make Christ known to be so to the people, because he was presently to enter upon his publike office. like a dove] To shew the innocency and meeknesse of our Saviour. upon him] Upon Christ, Isaiah 11:2.