When John’s disciples came to Him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to You, to ask, Are You the Expected One, or do we look for someone else? ” (v.19)
After John the Baptist had been imprisoned, he heard reports from his disciples that Jesus’ popularity was growing and His message about the a new kingdom was spreading. Though John had long ago recognized that, "one would come who’s sandles he was unworthy to latch," he sent for conformation.
Jesus’ response is a comforting model for us to use. Instead of discounting the doubt or criticizing John, Jesus pointed to the miracles He was doing. As eyewitnesses, John’s disciples could return with vivid assurances for their mentor. But He did more than that. He used words and phrases (v.22) drawn from Isaiah’s prophecies of the coming Messiah (Isa.35:4-6; 61:1) which were certain to be familiar to John. Then, turning to the crowd, Jesus praised John (Luke 7:24-28) removing any doubt that He was offended by John’s need for reassurance after all he had seen (Matt. 3:13-17).
Questioning and doubting are both natural and understandable human responses, but they provide opportunities for us to remind, reassure, and comfort those who are shaken by uncertainty. The Easter season is a time of year when many are looking for answers. May we share the love of Jesus and His message of forgiveness with them, and provide His comfort to all who doubt.
The Truth
“In the multitude of my anxieties within me, your comforts delight my soul.” (Psalm 94:19)
After John the Baptist had been imprisoned, he heard reports from his disciples that Jesus’ popularity was growing and His message about the a new kingdom was spreading. Though John had long ago recognized that, "one would come who’s sandles he was unworthy to latch," he sent for conformation.
Jesus’ response is a comforting model for us to use. Instead of discounting the doubt or criticizing John, Jesus pointed to the miracles He was doing. As eyewitnesses, John’s disciples could return with vivid assurances for their mentor. But He did more than that. He used words and phrases (v.22) drawn from Isaiah’s prophecies of the coming Messiah (Isa.35:4-6; 61:1) which were certain to be familiar to John. Then, turning to the crowd, Jesus praised John (Luke 7:24-28) removing any doubt that He was offended by John’s need for reassurance after all he had seen (Matt. 3:13-17).
Questioning and doubting are both natural and understandable human responses, but they provide opportunities for us to remind, reassure, and comfort those who are shaken by uncertainty. The Easter season is a time of year when many are looking for answers. May we share the love of Jesus and His message of forgiveness with them, and provide His comfort to all who doubt.
The Truth
“In the multitude of my anxieties within me, your comforts delight my soul.” (Psalm 94:19)
