As John’s disciples were leaving, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swaying in the wind?
Matthew 11:7. And while they were departing Christ praises John before the people, in order that they may state from recollection what they have heard from him, and may give credit to his testimony. For his name was widely celebrated, and men spoke of him in lofty terms: but his doctrine was held in less estimation, and there were even few that waited on his ministrations.
Christ spoke well of John to silence those who might doubt him, teaching us to defend the reputation of our brothers when they cannot speak for themselves. John humbled himself to exalt Christ; now Christ exalts John before all men. Those who honor Christ shall be honored by Him.
AI summary
Commenting on Matthew 11:7-15
But what went ye out for to see?.... Since it cannot be thought it was to see the reeds in the wilderness blow to and fro by the wind, or a man like one of them, either in gesture or doctrine; was it to see a man clothed in soft raiment? In raiment made of soft materials, as fine wool, cotton, silk, &c.