John forbade him] Out of modestie: for though they lived not together before, lest they should have been thought to conspire together, yet now, doubtlesse, he knew him by revelation, John 1:33. I have need to be baptized of thee] Inwardly and spiritually; for thou onely canst do it. Or, it is fitter that thou shouldest baptize me, being so far the more worthy person.