Jesus Testifies about John

(Malachi 3:1–5, Luke 7:24–35)

As [John’s disciples] were leaving, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John:“What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swaying in [the] wind? 8 Otherwise, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? Look, those who wear fine [clothing] are found in kings’ palaces. 9 What then did you go out to see? A prophet?[fn] Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 10 For this[fn] is [the one] about whom it is written:

‘Behold, I will send My messenger ahead of You

who will prepare Your way before You.’[fn]

11 

Truly I tell you, among [those] born of women there has risen no one greater than John the Baptist. Yet even 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 been subject to violence,[fn] and [the] violent lay claim to it. 13 For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John. 14 And if you are willing to accept [it], he is [the] Elijah who was to come.[fn]

15 

He who has ears to hear,[fn] let him hear.

16 

To what can I compare this generation? They are like children[fn] sitting in the marketplaces[fn] and calling out to one another:[fn]

17 

We played the flute for you,

and vvv you did not dance;

we sang a dirge for you,[fn]

and vvv you did not mourn.’

18 

For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say,‘He has a demon!’ 19 The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say,‘Look [at this] glutton and drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ But wisdom is vindicated by her children.[fn]”

20