7 While these were on their way, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see?+ A reed being tossed by the wind?+ 8 What, then, did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft garments?* Why, those wearing soft garments are in the houses of kings. 9 Really, then, why did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and far more than a prophet.+ 10 This is the one about whom it is written: ‘Look! I am sending my messenger ahead of you,* who will prepare your way ahead of you!’+ 11 Truly I say to you, among those born of women, there has not been raised up anyone greater than John the Baptist, but a lesser person in the Kingdom of the heavens is greater than he is.+