19 he sent them to the Lord to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”

20 When the men came to Jesus, they said, “John the Baptist sent us to you to ask, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?’ ”

21 At that very time Jesus cured many who had diseases, sicknessesi and evil spirits, and gave sight to many who were blind. 22 So he replied to the messengers, “Go back and report to John what you have seen and heard: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosya are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor.j 23 Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.”

24 After 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? 25 If 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. 26 But what did you go out to see? A prophet?k Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 27 This is the one about whom it is written:

“ ‘I will send my messenger ahead of you,

who will prepare your way before you.’b l

28 I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of Godm is greater than he.”