Verily. Matthew only. This solemn asseveration (Matthew 5:18, nine) would the more remind them of their duty towards John; and, if its force may be extended to the next clause, call their attention the more forcibly to his being only the herald of better things.
I say unto you, Among them that are born of women (Job 14:1) there hath not risen. These last words have the emphasis in the Greek, οὐκ ἐγήγερται, i.e. to work and energy as a prophet (Luke 7:16; Matthew 24:11, Matthew 24:24).
A greater than John the Baptist. This seems almost less praise than verse 9. But our Lord probably intended to tacitly meet the objection that Moses or Abraham was to be listened to rather than John (cf.
Matthew 3:9, note). Notwithstanding (yet, Revised Version) he that is least (but little, Revised Version, ὁδὲ μικότερος: cf. μείζων, Matthew 18:1) in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. The weakest Christian is greater in privileges than the greatest of the Old Testament saints.
John could preach repentance, but the joys of redemption he knew nothing of. He is therefore judged according to the rule, "Minimum maximi mains est maximo minimi".