The answer is: Four

Matt 3; Mark 1; Luke 3; John 1 - Though he's not described as John the Baptist in the gospel of John.

John the Baptist is arguably one of the most intriguing figures in the New Testament. Fresh out of the wilderness, he sported a fashion sense we can only describe as “agnostic chic” – wearing camel’s hair and munching on locusts (yes, the crunchy critters!). Each of the four Gospels covers the prophetic activities of John, showcasing his vital role in preparing the way for Jesus.

Interestingly, while the Gospel writers echo common themes of repentance and baptism, they each package John a bit differently. In Matthew, for instance, his fiery call to repentance clinches the narrative of Jesus' lineage and fulfills Old Testament prophecies. Mark, being the newest and shortest, gets to the point – emphasizing action over iteration. Luke expands the story to include John’s miraculous birth, connecting him to enchanting narratives like that of his cousin, Jesus, with an angel at the helm. However, in John’s Gospel, instead of highlighting John’s baptism, he presents him primarily as a witness, capitalizing on the idea of testimony.

Trivia time! Did you know that being a “baptist” comes from the Greek term "baptizō," meaning "to immerse"? This vibrant ritual symbolizes the washing away of sin, setting the stage for the new covenant. John’s advocating for baptism offered a fresh revelation in a time marinated in religious tradition. His brave “prepare the way” message continues to echo through the ages, reminding us all that transformation begins from within!