John the Baptist in Prophecy John, the Baptist plays an essential role in end times prophecy. His appearance on the scene marks the beginning of the last days. The setting of John's arrival per Isaiah's prophecy is is that of war, judgment and retribution, coupled with salvation. Isaiah wrote of comfort to Jerusalem saying her warfare is ended, and her iniquity is pardoned. She has received from the Lord's hand double for all her sins. (Isa. 40:1-2). This latter phrase is echoed in Revelation 18 with the fall of Mystery Babylon who receives "double" for her sins. The southern kingdom of Judah, ...