John the Baptist Defended and Exalted

Matthew 11:7-11

7  And as they departed, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind? 
8  But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings' houses. 
9  But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet. 
10  For this is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 
11  Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.