Matthew 11:9-19

9 What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.
10 This is the one about whom it is written, "See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.'
11 Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet 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 suffered violence, and the violent take it by force.
13 For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John came;
14 and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come.
15 Let anyone with ears listen!
16 "But to what will I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling to one another,
17 "We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and 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, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' Yet wisdom is vindicated by her deeds."

Footnotes 4

  • [a]. Other ancient authorities read [Why then did you go out? To see a prophet?]
  • [b]. Or [has been coming violently]
  • [c]. Other ancient authorities add [to hear]
  • [d]. Other ancient authorities read [children]
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.