How can we seek assurance in Jesus during times of uncertainty like John? Setting the Scene: John’s Question in the Dark Matthew 11:3: “Are You the One who is to come, or should we look for someone else?” John the Baptist, the very herald of Messiah, sits in prison—discouraged, confused, and in need of reassurance. His honest question shows that even the strongest believers can struggle when circumstances clash with expectations. Jesus’ Reply: Solid Evidence for Steady Faith Matthew 11:4-6: “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. Blessed is the one who does not fall away on account of Me.” • Jesus points to observable works—fulfillments of Isaiah 35:5-6; 61:1. • He invites John to rest his heart on Scripture confirmed by facts. • He attaches a promise: “Blessed is the one who does not fall away on account of Me.” Principles for Seeking Assurance Today • Bring every doubt to Jesus honestly—He welcomes real questions (Psalm 62:8). • Match your questions with His works: the cross (Romans 5:8) and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:4) are unchanging anchors. • Let fulfilled prophecy steady you—hundreds of promises met in Christ give objective ground for faith. • Cling to His promises of security: John 10:28-29; Hebrews 13:5. • Stay close to Christ’s body; testimony from fellow believers reinforces truth (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Hold tight to Jesus’ blessing in Matthew 11:6—He singles out steadfast trust as a pathway to joy. Simple Practices That Build Confidence • Read one Gospel chapter daily, noting every deed of compassion and power. • Journal answered prayers and past deliverances; review them when doubts visit. • Memorize Hebrews 6:19 and recite it whenever anxiety rises. • Sing Christ-centered hymns that rehearse the gospel (Colossians 3:16). • Share your struggles with a mature believer; allow them to speak truth back to you. Verses to Keep in Reach When Uncertainty Strikes • John 20:31 — “…that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ… and by believing you may have life in His name.” • Romans 8:38-39 — Nothing “will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” • Philippians 1:6 — “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion…” • Psalm 73:26 — “God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” • Hebrews 6:19 — “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” Final Encouragement: Keep Looking to the Lamb John’s moment of uncertainty didn’t disqualify him; it drove him straight to the only One who can calm a trembling heart. Do the same: fix your eyes on Jesus, rehearse His mighty works, trust His unbreakable Word, and let His blessing rest on you as you hold fast in every season of doubt. |
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