^{24 Ref} When John's messengers had departed, he began to tell the multitudes about John, "What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind?

^{25 Ref} But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft clothing? Behold, those who are gorgeously dressed, and live delicately, are in kings' courts.

^{26 Ref} But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and much more than a prophet.

^{27 Ref} This is he of whom it is written, 'Behold, I send my messenger before your face, Who will prepare your way before you.'