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What actions did St. John the Baptist expect people to take after repentance?

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Geertgen tot Sint Jans: John the Baptist in the Wilderness — St. John the Baptist *John the Baptist in the Wilderness*, oil on panel by Geertgen tot Sint Jans, 15th century; in the Gemäldegalerie, Berlin.

St. John the Baptist preached that individuals should prepare for the imminent Final Judgment by repenting of their sins and undergoing baptism in the Jordan River.1

Beyond these acts, John expected his followers to produce appropriate "fruits of repentance," which involved living a righteous life both before and after their baptism. His ethical teachings specifically called for the practice of justice and charity from people of all ranks and stations in society. Furthermore, his followers were characterized by engaging in penitent fasting—which exceeded the standard requirements of Jewish Law—and the observance of special prayers.1