NSB(i)
3 John traveled in the region near the Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
4 This was according to the words of Isaiah the prophet: »The voice of one crying in the wilderness. Make ready the way of Jehovah. Make his paths straight.
5 »Every valley shall be filled. Every mountain and hill shall be brought low. The crooked shall become straight and the rough ways smooth.
6 »All flesh shall see the salvation of God.« (Isaiah 40:3-6)
7 He told the crowds that came to be baptized by him: »You offspring of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath to come?
8 »Produce fruit that is worthy of repentance. Do not say we have Abraham for our father. I tell you, that God is able to make these stones into children for Abraham.
9 »The axe is now at the root of the trees. Every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown in to the fire.«
10 The people asked him: »What must we do?«
11 He answered: »He who has two coats let him give to him who has none. He who has food let him do likewise.«
12 Tax collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him: »Teacher, what must we do?«
13 He told them: »Collect no more than that which is prescribed.«
14 Soldiers also asked him: »What must we do?« And he said: »Do not take money from any one by force. Never falsely accuse any one wrongfully and be content with your wages.«