What can we learn from John's actions about seeking confirmation in faith? John’s Situation: A Prophet in Prison Matthew 11:2 — “While John was in prison, he heard about the works of the Christ and sent two of his disciples” • John the Baptist, the forerunner of Messiah, is physically confined yet spiritually attentive. • Even prophets can encounter circumstances that cloud their expectations (cf. 1 Kings 19:3-4, Elijah under the broom tree). • Hearing reports of Jesus’ works stirs John to seek direct clarification rather than rely on secondhand conclusions. What John Actually Does • He sends trusted disciples to Jesus (v. 3) instead of brooding in isolation. • He frames a clear, respectful question: “Are You the One who was to come, or should we look for someone else?” • He bases his inquiry on prior revelation—he knew the Messianic promises (Isaiah 35:5-6; 61:1) and wants confirmation that Jesus fulfills them. Lessons on Seeking Confirmation • Pursue the Source – Bring doubts straight to Christ, not merely to public opinion (James 1:5; Hebrews 4:16). – Jesus welcomes honest inquiry; He answers with evidence, not rebuke (Matthew 11:4-6). • Anchor Doubt in Revelation, Not Rebellion – John questions to understand, not to undermine. – Compare Thomas: “Unless I see… I will never believe” (John 20:25). Thomas is granted proof, yet Jesus commends those who trust the Word first (v. 29). • Look for Scriptural Signs – Jesus replies by citing Isaiah’s prophecies (“the blind receive sight…”), directing John to God’s written promises fulfilled in real time (Matthew 11:4-5; Isaiah 35:5-6). – Genuine confirmation aligns experience with Scripture, never contradicts it. • Accept Christ’s Gentle Correction – “Blessed is the one who does not fall away on account of Me” (Matthew 11:6). – Assurance often includes a call to steadfastness: hold to truth despite unmet expectations or adverse circumstances (2 Timothy 1:12). The Fruit of Honest Inquiry • Jesus publicly honors John right after addressing his question (Matthew 11:7-11), proving that seeking confirmation does not diminish one’s standing before God. • The process strengthens both the inquirer and the witnessing disciples, who now carry firsthand testimony of fulfilled prophecy. Practical Takeaways for Believers Today • Take every uncertainty to Jesus through prayer and Scripture; He still answers by illuminating His Word (Psalm 119:105). • Surround yourself with faith-filled companions who will help you reach Christ, not sow further doubt (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Measure every answer against the Bible; God’s voice never contradicts His written Word (Numbers 23:19). • Expect reassurance that leads to deeper conviction and courageous witness, even if circumstances do not immediately change (Philippians 1:6; Acts 16:25). |
    |