Final answer:
Matthew's Gospel includes specific dialogue between Jesus and John the Baptist, the symbolic ax and the tree, and a voice from heaven during the baptism which are unique elements to this account.
Step-by-step explanation:
The account of Jesus' baptism in Matthew's Gospel is particularly unique for several reasons. One material detail is the direct dialogue between Jesus and John the Baptist, where John initially objects to baptizing Jesus, saying that he needs to be baptized by Jesus instead (Matthew 3:14). However, Jesus insists, saying it is proper to fulfill all righteousness (Matthew 3:15), which is distinctive to Matthew. Also, Matthew uniquely reports that when Jesus was baptized, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. A voice from heaven then declares, 'This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased' (Matthew 3:16-17), which is also described in the other synoptic Gospels, but with slight variations.
Another specific symbol exclusive to Matthew is the reference to the ax and the tree in Matthew 3:10, which portrays the imminent judgment for those who do not produce good fruit. Furthermore, early Christian texts and traditions, as documented by the likes of Justin, emphasize the ritualistic and initiatory aspects of baptism that distinguished it from pagan practices. As stated, Matthew's narrative has contributions that depict John's role and the theological implications of Jesus' baptism as a transformative event, hinting at his messianic role and foreshadowing his death and resurrection.