2:26John the Baptist See also Aaronic Priesthood; Elias The son of Zacharias and Elisabeth in the New Testament. John was sent to prepare the people to receive the Messiah (John 1:19–27). He held the keys of the Aaronic Priesthood and baptized Jesus Christ. Isaiah and others prophesied of John’s mission, Isa. 40:3 (Mal. 3:1; 1 Ne. 10:7–10; 2 Ne. 31:4). Was put in prison and beheaded, Matt. 14:3–12 (Mark 6:17–29). Gabriel announced John’s birth and ministry to Zacharias, Luke 1:5–25. Jesus taught that John the Baptist was a great prophet, Luke 7:24–28. Recognized Jesus as the Son of God, John 1:29–34. John’s disciples became Jesus’ disciples, John 1:25–29, 35–42 (Acts 1:21–22). Did no miracle, John 10:41. As a resurrected being, was sent to ordain Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery to the Aaronic Priesthood, D&C 13 (D&C 27:7–8; JS—H 1:68–72). Was ordained by an angel when he was eight days old, D&C 84:28.
