John, the son of Zechariah, was living in the desert, and he received a message from God. 

So he went through the whole area around the Jordan River and told the people God’s message.

He told them to be baptized to show that they wanted to change their lives, and then their sins would be forgiven. 

This is like the words written in the book of Isaiah the prophet:

“There is someone shouting in the desert:

‘Prepare the way for the Lord.

Make the road straight for him.

Then everyone will see how God will save his people!’”