Matthew 3, John the Baptist's Mission

John the Baptist's message was repentance to prepare for the Kingdom of God (verse 2). The Greek for repent means change of heart of mind. The Hebrew meaning for repent is to return.

The Kingdom of God as John was referring to means God's Church on the earth (Bible Dictionary). In other instances it means the Celestial Kingdom.

So, to me, the whole meaning of verse 2 is this: Return to the Covenant with your whole heart because the Church--complete with all of God's covenants to take us home to him--is about to be established.

Prepare for the way of the Lord.