John the Baptist, as his name depicts, is a Baptist. He preaches in the wilderness of Judea (Matt. 3:1) and speaks the word of the kingdom of heaven. He travels around Jerusalem, baptisting people as they confess their sins. He told the people of Jesus, and his predetermined arrival. When Jesus did arrive, John the Baptist was the person who baptized him. 

John the Baptist was held in great regard by Jesus as well. Jesus actually took him up to the mountain with Peter and James to watch their transformation.