The gospels claim that John the Baptist was just preparing the way for Jesus, but what if his role was much bigger? In this episode, Helen and Dave are joined by James McGrath, who argues that Jesus started out as John's disciple and only rose to prominence after John's arrest and execution.

James has written two new books about John the Baptist! The first book is already out — Christmaker: A Life of John the Baptist. And the second, more scholarly volume will be released in October — John of History, Baptist of Faith: The Quest for the Historical Baptizer.

James is also a science fiction writer! Check out his intriguing short story about a time machine, time travelers and a certain tomb in 1st-century Jerusalem... It's called Certainty.

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BTM BOOK CLUB

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Theme music written and performed by Dave Roos

Was Jesus a Disciple of John the Baptist?