Mark 1:4

Amplified Bible - Classic Edition

John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness (desert), preaching a baptism [obligating] repentance (a change of one's mind for the better, heartily amending one's ways, with abhorrence of his past sins) in order to obtain forgiveness of and release from sins.

Cross References

Matthew 3:11

I indeed baptize you in (with) water because of repentance [that is, because of your changing your minds for the better, heartily amending your ways, with abhorrence of your past sins]. But He Who is coming after me is mightier than I, Whose sandals I am not worthy or fit to take off or carry; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.

Matthew 3:6

And they were baptized in the Jordan by him, confessing their sins.

Mark 1:5

And there kept going out to him [continuously] all the country of Judea and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, as they were confessing their sins.

Luke 1:77

To bring and give the knowledge of salvation to His people in the forgiveness and remission of their sins.

John 3:23

But John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, for there was an abundance of water there, and the people kept coming and being baptized.

Acts 10:37

The [same] message which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, starting from Galilee after the baptism preached by John–

Acts 22:16

And now, why do you delay? Rise and be baptized, and by calling upon His name, wash away your sins.