Person

John the Baptist

Also known as John the Baptizer

Prophetic figure who prepared the way for Jesus' ministry.

Filed underTheologians & Historical FiguresNew Testament Studies

Definition

A prophetic figure of priestly descent (born to Zachariah and Elizabeth) who conducted a distinctive ministry of baptism. He recognized Jesus' ministry, which briefly overlapped with his own, before he was executed by Herod Antipas.

Scripture

The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.requires verification

Sources

1.Everett Ferguson Church History: Volume One: From Christ to Pre-Reformation. 2nd ed.. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2013). pp. 33-44

Last revised August 18, 2026