How can we apply John's approach to seeking truth in our lives? Setting the scene: Luke 7:19 “So John called two of his disciples and sent them to the Lord to ask, ‘Are You the One who is to come, or should we look for someone else?’” The heart behind John’s question • John the Baptist already proclaimed Jesus as “the Lamb of God” (John 1:29), yet imprisonment and unfulfilled expectations pressed him to verify truth. • His question was not unbelief but a sincere, humble pursuit of certainty, anchored in Scripture’s Messianic promises (Isaiah 35:5-6). • He sent trusted disciples, showing willingness to involve community in discernment. Truth-seeking habits we can imitate • Start with Scripture: John’s question arose from comparing Jesus’ works with prophetic promises. • Bring doubts directly to Jesus: he sent disciples “to the Lord,” modeling honest dialogue with Christ rather than silent speculation. • Seek evidence, not rumors: John pursued firsthand confirmation of facts. • Remain teachable even after prior conviction: earlier declarations did not make him prideful or defensive. Walking it out today 1. Daily reading and meditation on the Word so our questions grow out of biblical expectation, not cultural opinion (Psalm 119:105). 2. Prayerful conversation with Christ when uncertainties arise, trusting Him to clarify truth (James 1:5). 3. Consult mature believers and leaders, as John involved his disciples, recognizing God often answers through His people (Proverbs 11:14). 4. Examine the fruit: Jesus pointed John’s messengers to observable works—healing, preaching good news (Luke 7:22). Evaluate teachings and movements by their alignment with Christ’s character and mission. 5. Hold conclusions open to refinement as new light from Scripture appears, yet stay anchored in core gospel truths (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Strengthened by Scripture • Acts 17:11 – the Bereans “searched the Scriptures daily to verify” apostolic teaching. • John 20:31 – “These are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ.” • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – “All Scripture is God-breathed… so that the man of God may be complete.” Following John’s example keeps our faith vibrant, discerning, and firmly rooted in the unchanging truth of God’s Word. |
    |