Matthew 11:8
But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses.
This question is part of the declaration about John and his mission, spoken after multitudes followed John hoping he was the Messiah while John directed their minds to the coming One. It belongs to the account in which John was imprisoned by Herod Antipas after confronting him over his unlawful marriage.
It contrasts John's plain, rough clothing with the soft, rich, luxurious and gorgeously apparelled garments worn by those who live delicately in kings' houses, palaces and royal courts. It asks whether the crowds went out into the wilderness expecting to see someone dressed for royal comfort and luxury, pointing out that such finely dressed, soft-clothed courtiers are found in palaces, not in the wilderness. The people who went into the wilderness knew John was no courtly figure seeking luxury, admiration, or outward display; they went to hear him preach, not to see someone living in royal luxury.
John's simple dress suited his austere, humble, self-denying life and calling, including his mission to reprove sin, and showed his life and ministry were not marked by worldly luxury, splendor, or royal privilege. The contrast also exposes the Jewish priests, elders and rulers, who wore gorgeous apparel, costly robes and ornaments to impress people and win their regard and human praise, showing greater concern for outward admiration and appearance than for purity of character and heart, holiness of life, and allegiance to God, which alone gain God's approval. Such display belongs to those attached to the power and riches of this world, not to God's servants.