New TestamentGospels and Acts of the Apostles |
Who was John the Baptist? |
The book of Matthew does not describe the events surrounding the birth of John the Baptist. Matthew picks up the thread of John’s life when John has already started his career as a prophet: “His message was simple and austere, like his desert surroundings: ‘Change your life. God’s kingdom is here.’” (The Message, Matthew 3:1)