Jesus Testifies about John
24 After John’s messengers had left, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: "What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swaying in the wind? 25 Otherwise, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? Look, those who wear elegant clothing and live in luxury are found in palaces.
26 What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 27 This is the one about whom it is written:
‘Behold, I will send My messenger ahead of You,
who will prepare Your way before You.’7:27 Malachi 3:1
28 I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John, yet even the least in the kingdom of God is greater than he."
29 All the people who heard this, even the tax collectors, acknowledged God’s justice. For they had received the baptism of John. 30 But the Pharisees and experts in the law rejected God’s purpose for themselves, because they had not been baptized by John.