Who is John the Baptist?

• A. A Roman centurion who hosted Jesus.
• B. A Jewish prophet who preached repentance and baptized Jesus.
• C. A fisherman who disciples Jesus.
• D. A scribe who copied the Law.

Answer: (B)

John the Baptist is a Jewish prophet who preached repentance and baptized Jesus. In the Gospel accounts, he functions as the forerunner who called people to turn from sin and prepare themselves for the coming Messiah. His baptism practice symbolized cleansing and renewed commitment, and he famously baptizes Jesus in the Jordan River, marking the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry and Jesus’ identification with humanity. John also points others to Jesus, recognizing him as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. This distinguishes him from a Roman centurion who hosted Jesus, a fisherman who later becomes a follower of Jesus, and a scribe who copied the Law, since his role is specifically prophetic, preparatory, and centered on repentance and pointing toward Jesus.