King James Bible
"He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe’s latchet I am not worthy to unloose."
John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the one who follows him chronologically in public ministry. Despite appearing after John's ministry began, this coming one holds far greater significance in God's redemptive plan. John acknowledges Jesus' superior rank and divine preeminence. The Greek implies Jesus has always held this higher position, reflecting his eternal nature rather than merely a temporal succession. John uses the most menial task performed by the lowest slaves—untying sandals—to express his profound humility. This hyperbolic statement emphasizes the infinite gap between himself as herald and Christ as Messiah.