John the Baptist

The people of the New Testament were familiar with the prophecies of the Old Testament. And so when John the Baptist identified himself as "a voice of one calling in the wilderness" everyone knew he was talking about the words of Isaiah (see Isaiah 40:3). Such a bold claim produced different reactions, some were appalled that John would give himself such a status. They couldn't comprehend the reality of the Savior coming. Others were ready and willing to accept the fulfillment of the prophecy. This illustration depicts the mixed feelings about John's words. Although the reactions are a key part of this piece, the focus remains on John. John is cast in sunlight from the Heavens. He rises in confidence, he knows his job is to point to Christ's coming, no matter how others receive the news.