The Holy Forerunner gives instructions.
Matt. 3, 7-10; Mk. 1-16; OK. 3, 7-14.
Seeing many Pharisees and Sadducees coming to him to be baptized, Saint John said to them: brood of vipers! who inspired you to flee from future wrath? bring forth fruit worthy of repentance, and do not think to say within yourselves, “We have Abraham as our father,” for I tell you that God is able of these stones to raise up children to Abraham. Already the ax lies at the root of the trees: every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. And the people asked him: what shall we do? He answered and said to them: Whoever has two robes, give to the poor, and whoever has food, do the same.
The publicans also came to be baptized, and said to him: Master! what should we do? He answered them: Do not demand anything more than what is certain for you.
The soldiers also asked him: what should we do? And he said to them: do not offend anyone, do not slander, and be content with your salary.
