According to the New Testament, he was a preacher who baptized people. John called people to turn to God and to prepare for the coming of the messiah (Jesus). He baptized Jesus in the Jordan River. People would go to him so that he would put them in the water to show that they have turned away from their sins, so that they could get into heaven.

Explain that John was called John the Baptist because he baptized people. If the child has witnessed a baptism, you may use that as an illustration. You may also choose to play an online video of a baptism or merely explain what happens. Discuss how baptism is a picture of us dying to our sinful self and resurrecting into a new life in Christ.