In short
Jesus honours John as among the prophets, the highest-ranking office-bearers of the old covenant—even if they were not always the most honoured (Matthew 23:31). In Jesus’ day they were, at least in word, highly esteemed by the Jews (Matthew 23:29).
In Matthew 11:9–10, Jesus clearly makes his verdict regarding John known. Prophets were, albeit as a result of the unfaithfulness of the priests, the highest-ranking office-bearers of the old covenant—even if they were not always the most honoured (Matthew 23:31). In Jesus’ day they were, at least in word, highly esteemed by the Jews (Matthew 23:29). Jesus here therefore highlights that John’s position is truly a very special one.1
9 What then did you go out to see? A prophet?Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.