Christmaker: A Life of John the Baptist

Esteemed New Testament scholar James F. McGrath delves into the life of John the Baptist, uncovering overlooked details in Scripture and long-neglected sources.

The book covers John’s life from his miraculous conception to his execution by Herod Antipas, providing context about his social and religious world.

McGrath portrays John as a rebellious son of a priest, an innovator of ritual, and a mentor to Jesus.

The book also explores John’s significant influence on Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and the Mandaeans, a gnostic sect that considers themselves his faithful disciples.

McGrath argues that John’s baptism was an alternative to Temple sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins and that Jesus’s ministry reflected many of John’s teachings and practices.