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S. Michael Houdmann
Supporter
Although his name implies that he baptized people (which he did), John's life on earth was more than just baptizing. John's adult life was characterized by blind devotion and utter surrender to Jes...
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Gary Wofford
Supporter
There was a question as to whether John the Baptist and Jesus were cousins. That question was merged with this one. Elizabeth was Mary's aunt. Mary was Elizabeth's niece. That means that Jesus and John were some degree of cousins, but not first cousins. To be first cousins, Elizabeth and Mary would need to be sisters, and they weren't. They were a generation apart, even though Jesus and John were almost exactly the same age (within 3 or 4 months of each other).
Jack Gutknecht
Supporter
Good question, Barbara Kemp! (Who was John the Baptist?) Mt. 11:3: The one who is to come refers to the Messiah (see Matthew 3:11). John knew who Jesus was, but he wants to be sure He is the Messiah (compare Matthew 3:7-12). --Faithlife Study Bible, Mt 11:3). John's faith was faltering at this point while he is in jail. But Jesus has much to reassure him with, and He says good things about his cousin: Jesus says John is one of history's greatest men! Matthew 11:7-11. And in Matthew 11:12-15 Jesus compares John's ministry with that of Elijah. --Harold Wilmington Yes, his faith may have been faltering at the end of his life, but what Jesus said in Matthew 11:5 would surely encourage him. See this portrayed so dramatically here: Teaching With The Chosen: Jesus speaks with John the Baptist's disciples, Matthew 11, Luke 7 or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_hj9CNOe3w I think we can learn one more thing about John the Baptist: boldness -- The Old Testament prophet wrote: “But truly I am full of power by the spirit of the LORD, and of judgment, and of might, to declare unto Jacob his transgression, and to Israel his sin.” King James Version (KJV) Now listen to John the Baptist: 7-10 When John realized that a lot of Pharisees and Sadducees were showing up for a baptismal experience because it was becoming the popular thing to do, he exploded: “Brood of snakes! What do you think you’re doing slithering down here to the river? Do you think a little water on your snakeskins is going to make any difference? It’s your life that must change, not your skin! And don’t think you can pull rank by claiming Abraham as father. Being a descendant of Abraham is neither here nor there. Descendants of Abraham are a dime a dozen. (Mt 3)
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