7 hAs they departed, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? iA reed shaken by the wind? 8 But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft garments? Indeed, those who wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. 9 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, jand more than a prophet. 10 For this is he of whom it is written:

k‘Behold, I send My messenger before Your face,

Who will prepare Your way before You.’

11 “Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. 12 lAnd from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force. 13 mFor all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. 14 And if you are willing to receive it, he is nElijah who is to come. 15 oHe who has ears to hear, let him hear!