King James Version
John 1:23 in the King James Version says “He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias.” — study this verse from John chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias.”
John 1:23 · KJV
And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith, I am not. Art thou that prophet? And he answered, No. that prophet: or, a prophet?
Then said they unto him, Who art thou? that we may give an answer to them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself?
He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias.
And they which were sent were of the Pharisees.
And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet?
KJV Study — Public Domain
“am the voice”
G5456a tone (articulate, bestial or artificial); by implication, an address (for any purpose), saying or language
“the wilderness”
G2048lonesome, i.e., (by implication) waste (usually as a noun, g5561 being implied)
“the way”
G3598a road; by implication, a progress (the route, act or distance); figuratively, a mode or means
“of the Lord”
G2962supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
“the prophet”
G4396a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet
This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
John 1:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to John 1:23 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge