24. Before He came to public attention, John had previously proclaimed a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel.
25. Then as John was completing his life’s work, he said, ‘Who do you think I am? I am not the One. But look! Someone is coming after me, and I am not worthy to untie the sandals on His feet.’
26. “Brothers, sons of Abraham’s race, and those among you who fear God, the message of this salvation has been sent to us.
27. For the residents of Jerusalem and their rulers, since they did not recognize Him or the voices of the prophets that are read every Sabbath, have fulfilled their words by condemning Him.
28. Though they found no grounds for the death penalty, they asked Pilate to have Him killed.