Jesus initiated his public ministry by echoing John’s message calling for repentance, and did so in the area where John was baptizing. John the Apostle, however adds that Jesus actually didn’t immerse, but that his disciples did. One wonders who was included with Jesus as he joined John in the Jordan Valley. None other than the original six have been mentioned. This lasted about three months, ending when John was arrested.

On the surface this seems to be competition, but in reality, it was a transition of messengers, but not the message. John’s followers see it as competition with their teacher, but John sees it as transition and willing begins to step aside.

The disciples of John are not the only ones to notice the growing popularity of Jesus. The Pharisees realize that Jesus is gaining a religious following and begin to be concerned about this additional competition for the allegiance of the people.