John the Baptist greater than Elijah?

[foggedinn]

When asked if John the Baptist was Elijah, Jesus said that John was greater than Elijah or any of the prophets. Any of the prophets would include Moses, Abraham, Noah, etc. Pretty heady biblical company.

How is John greater than any of the prophets?

 

[Avatar4321]

How many of them Baptized the Savior of the World?

 

[foggedinn]

How many of them Baptized the Savior of the World?

None of them did. This is a unique thing John did. How does this make him greater than Adam?

Other thoughts?

 

[JenT]

7 As they departed, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? 8 But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft garments? Indeed, those who wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. 9 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet. 10 For this is he of whom it is written:


‘ Behold, I send My messenger before Your face,
Who will prepare Your way before You.’

11 “Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. 12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force. 13 For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. 14 And if you are willing to receive it, he is Elijah who is to come. 15 He who has ears to hear, let him hear!

Matthew 11

Were you speaking of that in red? Or does it say John is greater than Elijah elsewhere?

I think Jesus is saying that at that time, before Christ died for our sins, that there has not been one greater...so I see what you mean, John would be greater than Elijah.

Then it says "but he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he" that meaning all the saints/believers...Christians...the least one of us will be greater than he, and that being because John died before Christ died for our sins. Through the inheritance of Christ is everything...salvation, everything that God bestows on us because of His Son. It's kind of mind boggling that He does that for us, but He does. (thank God)

Then it is that John is "Elijah" and John didn't even know it.