²⁴ And the messengers of John having departed, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: What did you go out into the desert to gaze on? A reed shaken and swayed by the wind?

²⁵ Then what did you go out to see? A man dressed up in soft garments? Behold, those who wear fine apparel and live in luxury are in the courts or palaces of kings.

²⁶ What then did you go out to see? A prophet (a forthteller)? Yes, I tell you, and far more than a prophet.