24After John’s messengers left, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by the wind?25If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear expensive clothes and indulge in luxury are in palaces.26But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.
27This is the one about whom it is written:“ ‘I will send my messenger ahead of you,who will prepare your way before you.’Mal. 3:1