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Jesus Praises John the Baptist

As they went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to look at? A reed shaken by the wind?(A) What, then, did you go out to see? Someone[a] dressed in soft robes? Look, those who wear soft robes are in royal palaces. What, then, did you go out to see? A prophet?[b] Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.(B) 10 This is the one about whom it is written,

‘See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,
    who will prepare your way before you.’(C)

11 “Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist, yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. 12 From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence,[c] and violent people take it by force.(D) 13 For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John came, 14 and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come.(E) 15 Let anyone with ears[d] listen!(F)

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Footnotes

  1. 11.8 Or Why, then, did you go out? To see someone
  2. 11.9 Other ancient authorities read Why, then, did you go out? To see a prophet?
  3. 11.12 Or has been coming violently
  4. 11.15 Other ancient authorities add to hear