For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John,
The Law and Prophets held God's people in suspense by predictions and shadows, presenting Him as absent; but when God's presence itself came among them in Christ, to remain indifferent was criminal. John's preaching was only the first lesson of the Gospel, yet it marked the end of the old dispensation.
AI summary
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
John was Elias not in person but in spirit and power, as God appointed and the prophets foretold. He matched Elijah in zeal, courage, austerity, and holiness; he came to reprove vice and kindle true religion. When the Jews asked if he was Elias, they meant the Tishbite himself, and John rightly denied it.
AI summary