In what ways can Matthew 11:6 encourage us during times of doubt? Setting the scene Matthew 11 opens with John the Baptist—once so certain of Jesus—now confined in Herod’s prison and battling nagging doubts. He sends his disciples to ask, “Are You the One who was to come, or should we look for someone else?” (v. 3). Jesus answers by pointing to the miracles taking place and finishes with Matthew 11:6, “Blessed is the one who does not fall away on account of Me.” Understanding the promise in Matthew 11:6 • “Blessed” speaks of a settled happiness God bestows, not a fleeting emotion. • “Does not fall away” (or “stumble”) translates a word picture of tripping over an obstacle. Jesus Himself can feel like that obstacle when expectations aren’t met, circumstances get painful, or answers seem delayed. • The verse is a beatitude aimed at steadfast faith: a reassurance that holding on to Christ—even when He confounds us—ushers in God’s favor. Why even faithful hearts doubt • John’s circumstances had changed drastically; so can ours. Suffering often shakes previously unshakable convictions. • God’s timetable rarely mirrors ours (2 Peter 3:8–9). Waiting breeds questions. • Misapplied expectations—John anticipated a conquering Messiah; we may expect quick deliverance, visible success, or instant understanding. Ways Matthew 11:6 steadies us in seasons of uncertainty • Jesus acknowledges doubt without condemnation – He answers John kindly, offering evidence rather than rebuke (vv. 4–5). – Hebrews 4:15 reminds us He is “able to sympathize with our weaknesses.” • Assurance that doubt is not defeat – Even a prophet who prepared the Lord’s way wrestled with misgivings, yet Jesus called him “more than a prophet” (v. 9). – This lets us breathe: questions do not disqualify us from God’s love or purpose. • Invitation to focus on Christ’s works, not our feelings – Jesus pointed to tangible proofs—the blind seeing, the dead raised. – When doubt whispers, recall concrete demonstrations of His power in Scripture (Psalm 77:11–12) and in personal experience. • Promise of blessing for perseverance – Holding fast when it would be easier to walk away brings a unique, Jesus-pronounced blessing. – James 1:12 echoes the same theme: “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial.” • Redirection from “Why?” to “Who?” – The verse shifts attention from confusing circumstances to the trustworthy character of Christ (Revelation 19:11). – As we rehearse who He is—faithful, sovereign, good—confidence grows even when answers don’t. Practical steps to live out this encouragement 1. Revisit the record of what Christ has done—read Gospel accounts of His power and compassion daily. 2. Speak honestly with Him as John did; transparency invites His reassurance (Psalm 62:8). 3. Anchor to specific promises: Romans 8:28; Isaiah 41:10; John 14:1. 4. Surround yourself with believers who testify to God’s faithfulness (Hebrews 10:24–25). 5. Act on the light you have—keep obeying the last clear instruction while awaiting further clarity (John 2:5). Walking forward in confidence Matthew 11:6 does more than commend stubborn grit; it reveals a Savior who meets us in confusion, supplies solid reasons to keep trusting, and pronounces a blessing on those who refuse to let go. The same Jesus who steadied John will steady us, turning seasons of doubt into deeper certainty of His unchanging goodness. |
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