Baptism was associated with preparing people for the Messiah's arrival. If John was not the Messiah or a prophet, his authority to baptise was questioned.
Memory phrase: John baptised to prepare for Jesus.
Talk about it: The Pharisees questioned John's authority. Have you ever been told you could not do something that you knew God had asked you to do?
Prayer: God, help me do the things You call me to do, even when people question me or ask 'by what right?'