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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Mark 1:4 John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/mark/1-4.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/11/41_Mrk_01_04.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Mark 1:4 - The Mission of John the Baptist" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/mark/1-4.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/mark/1-4.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/mark/">Mark</a> > <a href="/mark/1.htm">Chapter 1</a> > Verse 4</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad4.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/mark/1-3.htm" title="Mark 1:3">◄</a> Mark 1:4 <a href="/mark/1-5.htm" title="Mark 1:5">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/mark/1.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/mark/1.htm">New International Version</a> And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <a href="/nlt/mark/1.htm">New Living Translation</a> This messenger was John the Baptist. He was in the wilderness and preached that people should be baptized to show that they had repented of their sins and turned to God to be forgiven. <a href="/esv/mark/1.htm">English Standard Version</a> John appeared, baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <a href="/bsb/mark/1.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <a href="/blb/mark/1.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> John came baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for forgiveness of sins. <a href="/kjv/mark/1.htm">King James Bible</a> John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. <a href="/nkjv/mark/1.htm">New King James Version</a> John came baptizing in the wilderness and preaching a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. <a href="/nasb_/mark/1.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <a href="/nasb/mark/1.htm">NASB 1995</a> John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <a href="/nasb77/mark/1.htm">NASB 1977 </a> John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <a href="/lsb/mark/1.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <a href="/amp/mark/1.htm">Amplified Bible</a> John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins [that is, requiring a change of one’s old way of thinking, turning away from sin and seeking God and His righteousness]. <a href="/csb/mark/1.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> John came baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <a href="/hcsb/mark/1.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> John came baptizing in the wilderness and preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <a href="/asv/mark/1.htm">American Standard Version</a> John came, who baptized in the wilderness and preached the baptism of repentance unto remission of sins. <a href="/cev/mark/1.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> So John the Baptist showed up in the desert and told everyone, "Turn back to God and be baptized! Then your sins will be forgiven." <a href="/erv/mark/1.htm">English Revised Version</a> John came, who baptized in the wilderness and preached the baptism of repentance unto remission of sins. <a href="/gwt/mark/1.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> John the Baptizer was in the desert telling people about a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <a href="/gnt/mark/1.htm">Good News Translation</a> So John appeared in the desert, baptizing and preaching. "Turn away from your sins and be baptized," he told the people, "and God will forgive your sins." <a href="/isv/mark/1.htm">International Standard Version</a> John was baptizing in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism about repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <a href="/msb/mark/1.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> John came baptizing in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <a href="/net/mark/1.htm">NET Bible</a> In the wilderness John the baptizer began preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <a href="/nheb/mark/1.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> John came baptizing in the wilderness and preaching a baptism of repentance for forgiveness of sins. <a href="/wbt/mark/1.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> John was baptizing in the wilderness, and preaching the baptism of repentance, for the remission of sins. <a href="/wey/mark/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> So John the Baptizer came, and was in the Desert proclaiming a baptism of the penitent for forgiveness of sins. <a href="/web/mark/1.htm">World English Bible</a> John came baptizing in the wilderness and preaching the baptism of repentance for forgiveness of sins. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/mark/1.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> John came immersing in the wilderness, and proclaiming an immersion of conversion for forgiveness of sins, <a href="/blb/mark/1.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> John came baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for forgiveness of sins. <a href="/ylt/mark/1.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> John came baptizing in the wilderness, and proclaiming a baptism of reformation -- to remission of sins, <a href="/slt/mark/1.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> John was immersing in the desert, and proclaiming the immersion of repentance for the remission of sins.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/mark/1.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> John was in the desert baptizing, and preaching the baptism of penance, unto remission of sins. <a href="/cpdv/mark/1.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> John was in the desert, baptizing and preaching a baptism of repentance, as a remission of sins. <a href="/nabre/mark/1.htm">New American Bible</a> John [the] Baptist appeared in the desert proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <a href="/nrsvce/mark/1.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/mark/1.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> John was in the wilderness, baptizing and preaching the baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/mark/1.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> Yohannan was in the wilderness, baptizing and preaching the baptism of repentance for the release of sins.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/mark/1.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> John was immersing in the wilderness, and preaching the immersion of repentance in order to the remission of sins. <a href="/godbey/mark/1.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness the baptism of repentance unto the remission of sins. <a href="/haweis/mark/1.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> John was baptising in the wilderness, and preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. <a href="/mace/mark/1.htm">Mace New Testament</a> accordingly, John baptized in the desart, and preach'd the baptism of repentance, for the remission of sins. <a href="/wey/mark/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> So John the Baptizer came, and was in the Desert proclaiming a baptism of the penitent for forgiveness of sins. <a href="/worrell/mark/1.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> John came, who was immersing in the wilderness, and preaching the immersion of repentance unto remission of sins. <a href="/worsley/mark/1.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> and preaching the baptism of repentance in order to the remission of sins; <a href="/parallel/mark/1-4.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DmwDTC71zvQ?start=21" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/mark/1.htm">The Mission of John the Baptist</a> …3“A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.’ ” 4<a href="/greek/2491.htm" title="2491: Iōannēs (N-NMS) -- Of Hebrew origin; Joannes, the name of four Israelites.">John</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/907.htm" title="907: baptizōn (V-PPA-NMS) -- Lit: I dip, submerge, but specifically of ceremonial dipping; I baptize. ">Baptist</a> <a href="/greek/1096.htm" title="1096: Egeneto (V-AIM-3S) -- A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude.">appeared</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tē (Art-DFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/2048.htm" title="2048: erēmō (Adj-DFS) -- Lonesome, i.e. waste.">wilderness,</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/2784.htm" title="2784: kēryssōn (V-PPA-NMS) -- To proclaim, herald, preach. Of uncertain affinity; to herald, especially divine truth.">preaching</a> <a href="/greek/908.htm" title="908: baptisma (N-ANS) -- The rite or ceremony of baptism. From baptizo; baptism.">a baptism</a> <a href="/greek/3341.htm" title="3341: metanoias (N-GFS) -- From metanoeo; compunction; by implication, reversal (another's) decision).">of repentance</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">for</a> <a href="/greek/859.htm" title="859: aphesin (N-AFS) -- A sending away, a letting go, a release, pardon, complete forgiveness. From aphiemi; freedom; pardon.">the forgiveness</a> <a href="/greek/266.htm" title="266: hamartiōn (N-GFP) -- From hamartano; a sin.">of sins.</a> 5People went out to him from all of Jerusalem and the countryside of Judea. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/matthew/3-1.htm">Matthew 3:1-6</a> In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea / and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” / This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: “A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.’” ... <a href="/luke/3-2.htm">Luke 3:2-6</a> during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. / He went into all the region around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, / as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: “A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him. ... <a href="/john/1-19.htm">John 1:19-28</a> And this was John’s testimony when the Jews of Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him, “Who are you?” / He did not refuse to confess, but openly declared, “I am not the Christ.” / “Then who are you?” they inquired. “Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.” ... <a href="/acts/19-4.htm">Acts 19:4</a> Paul explained: “John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the One coming after him, that is, in Jesus.” <a href="/acts/13-24.htm">Acts 13:24</a> Before the arrival of Jesus, John preached a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. <a href="/isaiah/40-3.htm">Isaiah 40:3</a> A voice of one calling: “Prepare the way for the LORD in the wilderness; make a straight highway for our God in the desert. <a href="/malachi/3-1.htm">Malachi 3:1</a> “Behold, I will send My messenger, who will prepare the way before Me. Then the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to His temple—the Messenger of the covenant, in whom you delight—see, He is coming,” says the LORD of Hosts. <a href="/matthew/11-10.htm">Matthew 11:10</a> This is the one about whom it is written: ‘Behold, I will send My messenger ahead of You, who will prepare Your way before You.’ <a href="/luke/7-27.htm">Luke 7:27</a> This is the one about whom it is written: ‘Behold, I will send My messenger ahead of You, who will prepare Your way before You.’ <a href="/john/3-23.htm">John 3:23</a> Now John was also baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because the water was plentiful there, and people kept coming to be baptized. <a href="/acts/1-22.htm">Acts 1:22</a> beginning from John’s baptism until the day Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.” <a href="/acts/10-37.htm">Acts 10:37</a> You yourselves know what has happened throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee with the baptism that John proclaimed: <a href="/matthew/21-25.htm">Matthew 21:25</a> What was the source of John’s baptism? Was it from heaven or from men?” They deliberated among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will ask, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ <a href="/luke/20-4.htm">Luke 20:4</a> John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or from men?” <a href="/john/10-41.htm">John 10:41</a> Many came to Him and said, “Although John never performed a sign, everything he said about this man was true.”</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.did.<a href="/matthew/3-1.htm">Matthew 3:1,2,6,11</a> In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, … <a href="/luke/3-2.htm">Luke 3:2,3</a> Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness… <a href="/john/3-23.htm">John 3:23</a> And John also was baptizing in AEnon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized.for.<a href="/acts/22-16.htm">Acts 22:16</a> And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/matthew/27-53.htm">Appeared</a> <a href="/matthew/28-19.htm">Baptism</a> <a href="/matthew/17-13.htm">Baptist</a> <a href="/matthew/28-19.htm">Baptize</a> <a href="/matthew/20-23.htm">Baptized</a> <a href="/matthew/17-13.htm">Baptizer</a> <a href="/matthew/28-19.htm">Baptizing</a> <a href="/mark/1-3.htm">Desert</a> <a href="/matthew/26-28.htm">Forgiveness</a> <a href="/matthew/19-8.htm">Hearts</a> <a href="/matthew/21-32.htm">John</a> <a href="/isaiah/1-27.htm">Penitent</a> <a href="/matthew/23-3.htm">Preach</a> <a href="/matthew/26-13.htm">Preached</a> <a href="/matthew/12-41.htm">Preaching</a> <a href="/matthew/9-35.htm">Proclaiming</a> <a href="/matthew/9-13.htm">Reformation</a> <a href="/matthew/19-1.htm">Region</a> <a href="/matthew/26-28.htm">Remission</a> <a href="/matthew/9-13.htm">Repentance</a> <a href="/matthew/26-48.htm">Sign</a> <a href="/matthew/27-4.htm">Sin</a> <a href="/matthew/26-28.htm">Sins</a> <a href="/mark/1-3.htm">Waste</a> <a href="/mark/1-3.htm">Wilderness</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/mark/9-4.htm">Appeared</a> <a href="/mark/1-5.htm">Baptism</a> <a href="/mark/6-14.htm">Baptist</a> <a href="/mark/1-8.htm">Baptize</a> <a href="/mark/1-5.htm">Baptized</a> <a href="/mark/6-14.htm">Baptizer</a> <a href="/luke/3-17.htm">Baptizing</a> <a href="/mark/1-12.htm">Desert</a> <a href="/mark/2-5.htm">Forgiveness</a> <a href="/mark/1-15.htm">Hearts</a> <a href="/mark/1-6.htm">John</a> <a href="/luke/3-4.htm">Penitent</a> <a href="/mark/1-38.htm">Preach</a> <a href="/mark/1-7.htm">Preached</a> <a href="/mark/1-7.htm">Preaching</a> <a href="/mark/1-14.htm">Proclaiming</a> <a href="/mark/2-17.htm">Reformation</a> <a href="/mark/1-28.htm">Region</a> <a href="/luke/1-77.htm">Remission</a> <a href="/mark/2-17.htm">Repentance</a> <a href="/mark/8-11.htm">Sign</a> <a href="/mark/1-15.htm">Sin</a> <a href="/mark/1-5.htm">Sins</a> <a href="/mark/1-12.htm">Waste</a> <a href="/mark/1-12.htm">Wilderness</a><div class="vheading2">Mark 1</div>1. <a href="/mark/1-1.htm">The office of John the Baptist.</a> 9. <a href="/mark/1-9.htm">Jesus is baptized;</a> 12. <a href="/mark/1-12.htm">tempted;</a> 14. <a href="/mark/1-14.htm">he preaches;</a> 16. <a href="/mark/1-16.htm">calls Peter, Andrew, James, and John;</a> 23. <a href="/mark/1-23.htm">heals one that had a demon;</a> 29. <a href="/mark/1-29.htm">Peter's mother in law;</a> 32. <a href="/mark/1-32.htm">many diseased persons;</a> 40. <a href="/mark/1-40.htm">and cleanses the leper.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/mark/1.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/mark/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/mark/1.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness John the Baptist's emergence in the wilderness fulfills the prophecy of <a href="/isaiah/40-3.htm">Isaiah 40:3</a>, which speaks of a voice crying out in the wilderness to prepare the way for the Lord. The wilderness, often associated with spiritual renewal and testing, is significant in biblical history, as it was where Israel wandered for 40 years and where Jesus would later be tempted. John's appearance here symbolizes a new beginning and a call to repentance. The wilderness also represents a place away from the religious establishment, emphasizing John's role as a prophet outside the traditional structures.preaching a baptism of repentance John's baptism was a radical call to repentance, a turning away from sin and a return to God. This baptism was not merely a ritual cleansing but a profound spiritual transformation. It signified a preparatory act for the coming of the Messiah, urging people to purify their hearts. The concept of repentance is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, where prophets like Jeremiah and Ezekiel called Israel to return to God. John's message aligns with these prophetic traditions, emphasizing the need for inner change.for the forgiveness of sins The forgiveness of sins is a central theme in both the Old and New Testaments. In the Old Testament, forgiveness was often associated with sacrifices and the Day of Atonement. John's baptism, however, pointed to a new covenant where forgiveness would be available through repentance and faith in the coming Messiah. This anticipates the work of Jesus Christ, who would offer ultimate forgiveness through His death and resurrection. John's message prepared the people to receive this new understanding of forgiveness, which would be fully realized in Christ's ministry.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/john_the_baptist.htm">John the Baptist</a> A prophetic figure who prepared the way for Jesus Christ. Known for his ascetic lifestyle and powerful preaching, he called people to repentance and baptized them as a sign of their commitment to change. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_wilderness.htm">The Wilderness</a> A significant location in biblical accounts, often symbolizing a place of testing, preparation, and encounter with God. It is where John the Baptist carried out his ministry. 3. <a href="/topical/b/baptism_of_repentance.htm">Baptism of Repentance</a> A ritual act symbolizing purification and the commitment to a new way of life. John's baptism was a precursor to Christian baptism, emphasizing repentance and the forgiveness of sins. 4. <a href="/topical/r/repentance.htm">Repentance</a> From the Greek word "metanoia," meaning a change of mind or turning away from sin. It involves a heartfelt transformation and a commitment to follow God's ways. 5. <a href="/topical/f/forgiveness_of_sins.htm">Forgiveness of Sins</a> The act of God pardoning sinners, which is central to the Christian message. John's baptism pointed to the ultimate forgiveness available through Jesus Christ.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_call_to_repentance.htm">The Call to Repentance</a> Repentance is a foundational step in the Christian faith. It involves a sincere turning away from sin and a commitment to live according to God's will. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_baptism.htm">The Role of Baptism</a> Baptism is an outward sign of an inward change. It symbolizes the washing away of sins and the beginning of a new life in Christ. <a href="/topical/p/preparation_for_christ.htm">Preparation for Christ</a> Just as John prepared the way for Jesus, we are called to prepare our hearts and lives for His presence and work in us. <a href="/topical/t/the_wilderness_experience.htm">The Wilderness Experience</a> Times of solitude and challenge can be opportunities for spiritual growth and preparation for what God has in store for us. <a href="/topical/f/forgiveness_as_a_gift.htm">Forgiveness as a Gift</a> Forgiveness is a central theme of the Gospel. It is a gift from God that we receive through faith and repentance, and it is something we are called to extend to others.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_mark_1.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Mark 1</a> <a href="/q/what_is_the_fourfold_witness.htm">What is the concept of the Fourfold Witness?</a> <a href="/q/join_us_at_the_waters.htm">Will you come to the waters for refreshment?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_baptism_mean_in_christianity.htm">What does baptism symbolize in Christian faith?</a> <a href="/q/why_did_jesus_undergo_baptism_by_john.htm">Why did Jesus undergo baptism by John?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/mark/1.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(4) John did baptize.--No other Gospel passes so abruptly, so in medias res, into the actual work of the Forerunner. There is no account of the birth or infancy of our Lord, as in St. Matthew and St. Luke; none of the pre-existence of the Son of Man, as in St. John. St. Mark is here, as elsewhere, emphatically the Evangelist of action. (On the rest of the verse, see Notes on <a href="/matthew/3-1.htm" title="In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea,">Matthew 3:1</a>.) The special phrase "baptism of repentance"--i.e., the sign of repentance, that which was connected with it, and pre-supposed it--meets us in <a href="/luke/3-3.htm" title="And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins;">Luke 3:3</a> and <a href="/acts/19-4.htm" title="Then said Paul, John truly baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying to the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.">Acts 19:4</a>. In the former passage we find also "forgiveness of sins" as the result of the baptism; and we cannot doubt, therefore, that then, as evermore, repentance was followed by forgiveness, even though the blood which availed for that forgiveness (<a href="/matthew/26-28.htm" title="For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.">Matthew 26:28</a>) had not as yet been shed.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/mark/1.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 4. - John came, and preached the baptism of repentance. John came, that is, that he might rouse the people to repentance, and prepare them, by the outward cleansing of their bodies, to receive the cleansing of their souls through Christ's baptism, which was to follow his. So that the baptism of John was the profession of their penitence. Hence they who were baptized with his baptism confessed their sins, and thus made the first step towards the forgiving mercy which was to be found in Christ; and the seal of his forgiveness they were to look for in his baptism, which is a baptism for the remission of sins to all true penitents and faithful believers. Christ's baptism was, therefore, the perfection and consummation of the baptism of John. <a href="/commentaries/mark/1-4.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>John Ἰωάννης (Iōannēs) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2491.htm">Strong's 2491: </a> Of Hebrew origin; Joannes, the name of four Israelites. the ὁ (ho) Article - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. Baptist βαπτίζων (baptizōn) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_907.htm">Strong's 907: </a> Lit: I dip, submerge, but specifically of ceremonial dipping; I baptize. appeared Ἐγένετο (Egeneto) Verb - Aorist Indicative Middle - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1096.htm">Strong's 1096: </a> A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. the τῇ (tē) Article - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. wilderness, ἐρήμῳ (erēmō) Adjective - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2048.htm">Strong's 2048: </a> Lonesome, i.e. waste. preaching κηρύσσων (kēryssōn) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2784.htm">Strong's 2784: </a> To proclaim, herald, preach. Of uncertain affinity; to herald, especially divine truth. [a] baptism βάπτισμα (baptisma) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_908.htm">Strong's 908: </a> The rite or ceremony of baptism. From baptizo; baptism. of repentance μετανοίας (metanoias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3341.htm">Strong's 3341: </a> From metanoeo; compunction; by implication, reversal (another's) decision). for εἰς (eis) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. [the] forgiveness ἄφεσιν (aphesin) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_859.htm">Strong's 859: </a> A sending away, a letting go, a release, pardon, complete forgiveness. From aphiemi; freedom; pardon. of sins. ἁμαρτιῶν (hamartiōn) Noun - Genitive Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_266.htm">Strong's 266: </a> From hamartano; a sin. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/mark/1-4.htm">Mark 1:4 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/mark/1-4.htm">Mark 1:4 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/mark/1-4.htm">Mark 1:4 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/mark/1-4.htm">Mark 1:4 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/mark/1-4.htm">Mark 1:4 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/mark/1-4.htm">Mark 1:4 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/mark/1-4.htm">Mark 1:4 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/mark/1-4.htm">Mark 1:4 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/mark/1-4.htm">Mark 1:4 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/mark/1-4.htm">Mark 1:4 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/mark/1-4.htm">NT Gospels: Mark 1:4 John came baptizing in the wilderness (Mar Mk Mr) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/mark/1-3.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Mark 1:3"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Mark 1:3" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/mark/1-5.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Mark 1:5"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Mark 1:5" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>