Matthew 11:4

Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see:

Matthew 11:4 (KJV)

Context

John the Baptist, imprisoned by Herod, sent messengers to Jesus asking whether He was the promised Messiah or if they should expect another. Jesus did not answer with a direct declaration of His identity. Instead, He told the messengers to report to John what they heard and saw.

Meaning

Jesus’ instruction to “Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see” points to the concrete evidence of His messianic ministry—both the miraculous healings and the teachings about the Kingdom of God. The phrase “things which ye do hear and see” echoes Old Testament messianic expectations, especially Isaiah 35:5-6, which speaks of the blind receiving sight, the lame walking, and the deaf hearing. While the verse does not name these prophecies, the miracles Jesus performed are commonly understood as the signs confirming His identity as the promised Messiah.

John had faithfully prepared the way for Christ, yet he found himself in a difficult situation, questioning whether the promised Messiah had truly arrived. Jesus’ response encourages John, reminding him that the works He was performing were the confirmation John had been waiting for. John’s ministry was not in vain but part of God’s larger plan.

Biblical connections

By directing the disciples to report the signs and teachings to John, Jesus extends an invitation for John and his followers to recognize and embrace His divine identity. Observing the signs and hearing the teachings should deepen their confidence in the faith and lead them to reaffirm their belief in Jesus as the Messiah. The response is both a confirmation and a call to witness, as the disciples are to “go and shew John again” the things they have witnessed.

Application

Matthew 11:4 calls believers to look for the evidence of God’s work in their own lives and to maintain steadfast faith, especially in times of doubt or adversity. The verse highlights Jesus’ compassion toward John’s concerns and offers a timeless reminder that the visible and audible testimonies of God’s kingdom are meant to strengthen and sustain our trust in Him.

Reflection

Jesus’ response to John shows that true knowledge of Christ comes through the evidence of His works and the testimony of those who witness them. When we face doubts, we can look to the works of Christ and the testimony of Scripture to reaffirm our faith.