AUV(i)
13 For all of the prophets and the law of Moses prophesied [of this kingdom] up until the time of John.
14 And if you are willing to accept [this truth], this person [i.e., John] fulfills [the prophecy of] the coming of Elijah. [See Mal. 4:5-6]
15 The person who has ears to hear with ought to listen [to this] carefully.
16 But what should I compare the people of this generation with? They are like children sitting in the open shopping market, who call out to their playmates,
17 ‘We [pretended like we] were making music [at a wedding] but you did not dance; we [pretended like we] were wailing [at a funeral] but you did not beat your chest [in mourning].’
18 For when John came, he did not eat or drink [on festive occasions] and people said, ‘He is dominated by an evil spirit.’