Why is Christ’s Baptism Stressful? (Luke 12:49-59)

When Christ enters history we expect Christ to bring peace, life, and joy in this age. However, this is not what we see with Christ. Christ speaks of casting fire and creating division. This is the messiah who is supposed to bring the kingdom of peace, shalom, that is a kingdom of wholeness for his people. So, if this is true then why is Christ bringing division on this earth? Secondly, why is Christ so overwhelmed by his baptism?

Why is Christ Distressed about Baptism? (Luke 12:49, 50)

We normally think that baptism is a wonderful sign and seal of the Lord's promise. It presents for us the certainty that Christ has endured an eternal punishment, and he has emerged triumphant. The very promise of Genesis 15 is confirmed in Christ's death and resurrection. Christ confirms the promise of the covenant of grace. We think of baptism being this sign of the covenantal promise.

However, Christ is actually anxious about his baptism and he desires to get through his baptism as soon as possible. Why is Christ so concerned about baptism when his father has already pronounced that he is pleased with his son? If Christ is already baptized then what baptism is Christ looking forward to undergoing?