1. What did you go out to see? (7-10)

Jesus knew that John was in prison. A fickle crowd could despise John because of this. Jesus rebuked the crowd, for they had gathered like a bunch of sightseers. He told them about John's greatness. John did not dress in fine clothes, nor did he live in a lakeshore apartment. He had lived a humble life in the desert. His true greatness was in the greatness of his mission. He was sent by God to prepare the way for the Messiah.

2. The greatest man (11-15)

Prophets had long prophesied the Messiah's coming, but John announced that he had come. Like Elijah, he called men to repent. Both John and Jesus forcefully attacked the strongholds of Satan with the truth of God. John was a great man; but one who repents and receives Jesus and takes hold of God's kingdom with all his strength is greater!

Application: Lord, forgive my uncommitted, sightseer's heart, and help me to take hold of your kingdom with all my strength.
One Word: Be great in God