In Jesus’ day, most Jews were expecting a conquering Messiah—a king who would bring national peace to Israel and drive out their enemies. John the Baptist was among them, but with a twist: he wasn’t focused on Rome. His eyes were on Israel’s own religious leaders. He longed for God to judge, purify, and set His people right. And John wasn’t wrong—that day will come. But he misunderstood the timing. The Messiah had other business to take care of first.