After John's messengers left, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: "What did you go out into the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear expensive clothes and indulge in luxury are in palaces. But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written: " 'I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.' I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he." (Luke 7:24-28)

Validated as a prophet, precursor, and preparer of God's purpose, yet John is exceeded by the least in the kingdom of God.

Jesus is quoted as using the Greek words mikros and megas contrasting small and large, younger and older, low and tall.

What is Jesus saying? What does he mean us to understand? John gave himself over to God's intention. He sacrificed all - including his life - to serve God's purpose.

Yet Jesus seems to suggest that John did not experience the kingdom of God. Why not? What more was needed?