John 1:19-34 Few characters in the New Testament

display such fanatical zeal for Christ as that of John the Baptist.

The Gospels' descriptions of him portray a man called by God to

live on the fringe of society with a singular purpose - to "make

straight the way of the Lord." Keeping in line with the Gospel

writer's stated purpose, John the Baptist is presented as the

recipient of an inquisition. Asked about his own life, John the

Baptist quickly redirects all attention on the Messiah. His life's

witness challenges the testimony of every soul regarding Jesus

Christ.