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Gospels · New Testament

John the Baptist

Prophet Who Prepared the Way

Name meaning
The LORD is gracious
Name origin
Hebrew: יוֹחָנָן (Yochanan), “the LORD is gracious”

Quick facts

Occupation
  • Prophet
  • Baptizer
Birthplace
Hill country of Judah (Luke 1:39)
Modern-day location
The Judean hill country, in the present-day West Bank; the exact place is not specified.
Family
  • Son of Zechariah and Elizabeth
  • Kinsman of Jesus
First mention
Luke 1:5-25
Last mention
John 3:30; Matthew 14:10
Key artifacts
  • Wilderness staff
  • Camel-hair garment
  • Jordan River

Key verses

  • “The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord.”

    Matthew 3:3

  • “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.”

    John 1:29

  • “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

    John 3:30

Biography

Early Life

John was born to the aged priest Zechariah and Elizabeth after an angel announced his birth. He grew up in the wilderness.

Defining Biblical Moments

He called Israel to repentance, baptized Jesus in the Jordan, and identified him as the Lamb of God. John was imprisoned and executed by Herod Antipas.

Strengths

John was courageous, austere, and clear about pointing beyond himself to Jesus.

Weaknesses & Lessons

His imprisonment followed fearless truth-telling; his story shows that faithful witness may carry a cost.

Life Lessons for Today

His imprisonment followed fearless truth-telling; his story shows that faithful witness may carry a cost.

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John the Baptist appears in The Life of Jesus & The Early Church, alongside more profiles like this one.

Page #13 in The Life of Jesus & The Early Church

The Life of Jesus & The Early Church front cover

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