Matthew 11:3

And said unto him, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?

Matthew 11:3 (KJV)

Context

John the Baptist had prepared the way for the Messiah, identifying Jesus as the Lamb of God and witnessing the Spirit descending on Him at His baptism (Matthew 3:13-17). Later, Herod Antipas imprisoned John for confronting his immorality (Matthew 14:3-5). From prison, John heard of Christ’s works and sent disciples to ask, “Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?”

Meaning

The phrase “he that should come” (Greek: ὁ ἐρχόμενος) was a recognized Messianic title, pointing to the expected One. John’s question reveals a moment of uncertainty, likely deepened by imprisonment and perhaps by expectations that the Messiah would bring immediate triumph over oppression. Jesus did not rebuke John but answered with evidence, telling the disciples to report what they heard and saw: the blind receive sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the gospel preached to them (Matthew 11:4-5). These works align with Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah, especially Isaiah 35:5-6 and Isaiah 61:1.

Biblical connections

The parallel account in Luke 7:19-20 confirms that John sent two disciples with the same question. Jesus’ response points to His deeds as the fulfillment of Messianic prophecy, and He blesses those who are not offended by Him (Matthew 11:6).

Application

• Doubts can affect even the strongest believers. John was a faithful servant, yet he expressed uncertainty while in prison. Doubts may arise in our spiritual journey, but they need not define our faith; we can seek answers and reassurance from God and His Word.

• Jesus responds with patience and evidence. Rather than rebuking John, He pointed to the works of His ministry. When we face doubts, we can bring them to Jesus and seek guidance through prayer, Scripture, and the Holy Spirit’s wisdom.

• The fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus confirms His identity as the promised Savior. His miracles, life, death, and resurrection hold deep significance in God’s redemptive plan.

Reflection

John’s question invites us to consider how we respond when our expectations of God’s work are not met. Jesus welcomes honest questions and answers them with evidence of His grace and power.