7As John’s disciples were leaving, 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?
8If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear fine clothes are in kings’ palaces.
9Then what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.
10This 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
11Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
12From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been subjected to violence, Or been forcefully advancing and violent people have been raiding it.
13For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John.
14And if you are willing to accept it, he is the Elijah who was to come.
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