The Faithful Prophet: John the Baptist vs. The Illustrious Joan of Arc

"Assuredly I say to you, among those born of women, there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist, but he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he."[1] This powerful statement encapsulates the profound faith and significance of John the Baptist, a prophet who heralded the coming of the Messiah. However, among the myriad voices that affirm his importance, a shadow looms over such declarations. This essay explores the wisdom and faith of both John the Baptist and Joan of Arc, one of the most celebrated figures of the Christian faith, through the lens of divine prophecy and leadership.

John the Baptist: The Herald of the Messiah

John the Baptist is often revered for his unwavering faith and his role in preparing the way for Jesus Christ. He stands as a pivotal figure in the Christian narrative, serving as a witness to the presence of the lamb of God and teaching the importance of repentance and the opening of hearts to Christ. Without a change of heart, the Lord cannot enter a person's life, a principle that John emphasized throughout his prophetic ministry.

The Prophet’s Call and Mission

John’s ministry was marked by its straightforward and uncompromising nature. As a messenger of God, he called the people to repentance and prepared the way for the Lord’s coming. His message was clear: the day of visitation had arrived, and the Kingdom of God was at hand. However, despite his significance, John often faced resistance and doubts, especially from those who knew him best. When John himself questioned Jesus, it revealed the profound faith that was required to accept the truth of the Messiah's identity.[2]

John in Ministry: A Strategy Uncoordinated

John’s prophetic ministry was undertaken without prior consultation with Jesus, indicating the divine nature of his calling. He embarked on this mission independently, spreading the Kingdom of God without seeking approval or coordination with his cousin. The lack of a concerted strategy between John and Jesus is a testament to the divine overshadowing of John’s efforts, as he proceeded with God's will alone.

The Ultimate Sacrifice: John’s Head in Prison

John’s fate, like many true prophets, was one of martyrdom. After hearing of the miracles that Jesus performed, John’s hopes were temporarily revitalized. He sent his disciples to inquire about Jesus’ identity, but Jesus did not directly affirm his doubts. Unbeknownst to John, Jesus refused to intervene to free him from prison, leading to John’s eventual execution.[3] This event serves as a poignant reminder of the often misunderstood and challenging nature of faith, where the truth is often revealed only at great personal cost.

Joan of Arc: Unmatched Faith and Resolve

It is often said that faith cannot be measured by earthly achievements, and in that light, Joan of Arc’s stature as a prophet and Christian leader stands apart. Joan, who many consider to be the greatest of all, embraced her faith with unparalleled resolve and courage. She was not only a prophet but a mascot of the French people in their struggle against the English during the Hundred Years' War.

Joan’s Ascent to Glory

Joan of Arc’s mission and the miracles she performed earned her a place among the greatest figures of the Christian faith. Her conviction in the voice of God and her unwavering faith have inspired countless believers. Her famous words, “I would rather have my head chopped off seven times over rather than burn,” demonstrate her commitment to her faith at any cost.[4] These words echo the fierce determination of John the Baptist and underscore the profound faith required to be a true servant of God.

The Last Shall Be First

Jesus’ words, “The last shall be first,” are particularly relevant in this context. While John the Baptist may have been birthed to women and was among the greatest on earth for his unwavering faith, Joan of Arc’s legacy and the Kingdom she represents are those of the saints and martyrs who achieve glory through their faith. Her coronation with honor and glory by the Church speaks to the profound impact of her faith and the revolutionary changes she brought to the faith during her time.[5]

The Royal Connection: Mary Magdalene and Emmaus

As a parting moment, we can also reflect on the biblical accounts of Mary Magdalene recognizing the risen Christ and the Emmaus Road encounter, where the disciples recognized Jesus. Both stories emphasize the profound impact of faith and the transformative experiences that true believers undergo.[6]

Conclusion: A Comparative Analysis

The faith and ministry of John the Baptist and Joan of Arc both highlight the importance of unwavering belief and the often challenging path of faith. While John the Baptist’s message was crucial in preparing the way for the Messiah, Joan of Arc’s role was transformative and revolutionary, earning her a place not just as a prophet but as a symbol of enduring faith. Both figures stand as beacons of hope and inspiration in their own right, encouraging all believers to embrace their faith with the same conviction and courage.