Though he had not deferred to them, the Sanhedrin accounted that, as a public teacher, he was under their jurisdiction. The interest in his work seemed to be continually increasing. John had not recognized the authority of the Sanhedrin by seeking their sanction for his work and he had reproved rulers and people, Pharisees and Sadducees alike. The danger of insurrection caused every popular gathering to be looked upon with suspicion by the Romans, and whatever pointed toward an uprising of the people excited the fears of the Jewish rulers. The preaching of John had taken so deep a hold on the nation as to demand the attention of the religious authorities. ![]() Would not He who had wrought so wonderfully in ages past again manifest His power for Israel's deliverance? Such was the thought stirring the hearts of the people who daily thronged the banks of the Jordan. The memory of these events was at this time revived, and gave a thrilling interest to the Baptist's message. A little distance from here the stronghold of Jericho had been overthrown by the armies of heaven. ![]() It was not far from this spot that God had stayed the river in its flow until Israel had passed over. John the Baptist was now preaching and baptizing at Bethabara, beyond Jordan.
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