60. The Lord’s Praise of the Holy Forerunner. Mt. 11:7–15; Lk. 7:24–28

When John’s messengers had departed, Jesus began to speak to the crowds concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? But what did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? But those who wear soft clothing live in the palaces of kings. But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. For this is the one about whom it is written: ‘Behold, I send My messenger before Your face, who will prepare Your way before You’ (Mal. 3:1).”

Truly I say to you, among those born of women there has not appeared anyone greater than John the Baptist; there is no prophet greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.

From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and violent men lay hold of it. For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John. And if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come.

He who has ears to hear, let him hear!