MATTHEW 11:02-06
THE MESSENGERS FROM JOHN THE BAPTIST
INTRODUCTION
Matthew 11:2-6 recounts a pivotal moment in the ministry of Jesus, where John the Baptist, from his prison cell, sends messengers to ask Jesus if He is truly the Messiah they had been waiting for. This passage highlights a key theme in the Gospel of Matthew — the revelation of Jesus’ identity as the Christ and how that aligns with the expectations of the Jewish people. John, who had once boldly proclaimed the coming of the Messiah, now seeks assurance in the face of adversity. Jesus’ response emphasizes His works: the blind see, the lame walk, and the poor hear the good news. This serves as confirmation that Jesus is indeed fulfilling the prophecies of the Old Testament, albeit in ways that may not align with common messianic expectations.
This exchange between John’s disciples and Jesus reveals not only the nature of Christ’s mission but also the challenge of recognizing God’s plan when it does not match human expectations. Jesus does not offer a direct “yes” or “no” answer to John’s question, but rather points to His miracles as evidence of His messianic role. This invites deeper reflection on how God’s kingdom is often manifested in ways that confound worldly notions of power and glory. As we interpret this passage, we are called to consider how we respond when our faith is tested, and how, like John, we can seek Christ for clarity and reassurance in times of doubt.
Matthew 11:2-3 “When John heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent his disciples to him with this question, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?'”
At the time, John the Baptist was imprisoned by Herod Antipas for denouncing Herod’s unlawful marriage (Mt 14:3-4). Prior to his imprisonment, John had already recognized Jesus as the Messiah, declaring Him the “Lamb of God” (Jn 1:29). However, in Matthew 11:2-3, John sends his disciples to Jesus to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?”
This question has intrigued many, considering John’s previous acknowledgment of Jesus’ identity. Some suggest John may have been confused or disillusioned. The Jewish expectation of the Messiah was primarily political – a figure who would liberate Israel from Roman oppression and restore the Davidic kingdom. John, like many in his time, may have expected immediate judgment and political deliverance, as prophesied in passages like Malachi 3:1 and Isaiah 61:1. However, Jesus’ mission focused on spiritual liberation, healing, and mercy, not a political revolution. This divergence from traditional messianic expectations may have prompted John to seek clarity, especially as he faced the possibility of death.
Interpretation:
While some view John’s question as a moment of doubt, Catholic tradition offers a deeper understanding. According to Church Fathers like St. John Chrysostom, John’s faith remained strong. He was not seeking reassurance for himself but for the sake of his disciples. St. John Chrysostom explains, “John did not send his disciples out of ignorance…but in order that they might be convinced.” From prison, John continues his role as the forerunner of Christ by directing his disciples to Jesus, allowing them to witness Christ’s works firsthand and preparing them to follow Jesus after his own death.
This event illustrates John’s enduring mission to point others to Christ, fulfilling his role as the precursor prophesied in the Old Testament. Even in his final days, John leads others to Jesus, emphasizing the importance of Jesus’ works as the fulfillment of messianic prophecy.
Catholic Teaching:
The Catechism of the Catholic Church highlights John’s critical role in salvation history:
“John the Baptist is ‘more than a prophet.’ In him, the Holy Spirit concludes his speaking through the prophets. John completes the cycle of prophets begun by Elijah…He inaugurates the Gospel” (CCC 719).
John’s question ultimately serves to reveal Jesus’ messianic mission more clearly. Rather than doubting, John provides an opportunity for Jesus to demonstrate that He is indeed the long-awaited Messiah, as prophesied in Isaiah. Jesus’ response, recorded in Matthew 11:4-6, emphasizes His works – the blind receiving sight, the lame walking, the cleansing of lepers, and the preaching of the Good News to the poor. These signs align with Old Testament prophecies such as Isaiah 35:5-6 and 61:1, pointing to Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promise.
From a Catholic perspective, this passage invites the faithful to understand that Jesus’ messianic mission was not one of political liberation, but of spiritual healing and salvation. The Church teaches that Jesus fulfilled the messianic prophecies, but His kingdom is not of this world (Jn 18:36). It is a spiritual kingdom inaugurated through His death and resurrection, offering freedom from sin and death (CCC 541).
Reflection
John’s question resonates with many believers today, particularly in moments of suffering or confusion. Like John, Christians may face doubt or question where God is when life takes unexpected or painful turns. In these moments, Jesus invites us to look at His works acts of love, mercy, and healing – as signs of God’s Kingdom in the world.
Just as John led his disciples to Jesus, we are called to guide others to Christ, even when our own understanding is incomplete. By turning to Jesus in prayer and reflection, we can find reassurance in His messianic mission and trust in His divine plan, even when it defies human expectations.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, like John the Baptist, help us to prepare the way for You in the hearts of others. When we face doubts or difficulties, grant us the grace to turn to You directly. May our lives always point to Your saving presence in the world. Strengthen our faith and help us to recognize You in the works of love and mercy around us. Amen.
Matthew 11:4-5 “Jesus answered them, ‘Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have good news brought to them.'”
At the time of Jesus’ ministry, the Jewish people were anxiously awaiting the Messiah, expecting a deliverer who would restore Israel and free them from Roman oppression. However, Old Testament prophecies painted a different picture of the Messiah as one who would not only redeem Israel but also heal humanity from its deeper afflictions of sin and suffering. Isaiah prophesied about the Messiah’s healing power: “Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; then shall the lame man leap like a deer, and the tongue of the mute sing for joy” (Isa 35:5-6). “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound” (Isa 61:1).
When John the Baptist sent his disciples to ask if Jesus was the Messiah, Jesus pointed to His works: healing the blind, raising the dead, and proclaiming the good news to the poor. These signs fulfilled the Messianic prophecies, showing that the kingdom of God had come through Christ. His ministry did not conform to political or military expectations but focused on the deeper healing and salvation of humanity.
Catholic Teaching and Understanding
In this passage, the Catholic Church sees a direct fulfillment of the Messianic prophecies. The miracles Jesus performed – healing the blind, the lame, the deaf, and raising the dead – were not only acts of compassion but also signs of God’s kingdom breaking into the world. These miracles demonstrated Christ’s divine authority and His mission to redeem humanity.
The Church teaches that Jesus’ actions prefigure the ultimate salvation He offers through His death and resurrection. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 548) states, Christ’s miracles reveal His power as the Son of God and show that His mission is to conquer sin and death. Furthermore, they foreshadow the eternal healing and restoration that will be fully realized in the resurrection (CCC 1503).
The Second Vatican Council’s document Lumen Gentium highlights the Church’s role in continuing Christ’s mission, particularly by serving the poor and marginalized. Jesus’ work among the suffering is seen as a call to His followers to engage in ministries of healing, compassion, and social justice.
Reflection
Jesus’ mission, as demonstrated in Matthew 11:4-5, was not merely to perform miracles but to reveal God’s deep love for the suffering and marginalized. His care for the poor – both materially and spiritually – forms the foundation of Catholic social teaching, which prioritizes the dignity of every human person and the preferential option for the poor.
As Christians, we are called to continue Christ’s mission by addressing both physical and spiritual needs. While most of us may not perform miraculous healings, we can contribute to healing in other ways—supporting healthcare, promoting justice, and offering hope through the Gospel. We are challenged to see Christ in those who are suffering and to extend His love and care to the most vulnerable.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for revealing Yourself as the true Messiah through Your words and deeds. Help us to see You more clearly in the Scriptures and in our daily lives. Grant us the grace to be Your hands and feet in the world, bringing healing and hope to those in need. May we always proclaim the Good News of Your love and salvation to all we encounter. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Matthew 11:6 “And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.”
In Matthew 11:6, Jesus speaks to the disciples of John the Baptist, who had come to ask if He was truly the Messiah. John, now imprisoned, experienced moments of uncertainty about Jesus’ identity. In response, Jesus points to His miraculous works – the blind receiving sight, the lame walking, lepers being cleansed, and the Good News being preached to the poor (Mt 11:4-5; cf. Isa 35:5-6; 61:1). Jesus concludes with a beatitude: “Blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.”
Catholic Understanding of “Taking No Offense”
In the original Greek, the word “offense” (skandalizō) refers to stumbling or falling away from faith. Jesus’ humble mission defied expectations of a Messiah as a political or military leader, which caused scandal for many who awaited a more triumphant figure. Jesus’ identity as the suffering servant challenged the prevailing notions of power and salvation.
The Church teaches that faith is often tested when God’s plan does not align with human expectations. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), Jesus is a “sign of contradiction” (CCC 550, 561), and His path – centered on sacrifice and love – can challenge our understanding of how God operates. The “blessed” in this verse are those who do not reject or stumble over Jesus but accept Him as the true Messiah, trusting in His divine plan even when it seems difficult.
Key Themes in Catholic Teaching
1. Faith Amidst Doubt: John the Baptist, despite his role as the forerunner of Christ, experienced moments of doubt. This reminds us that doubt is not inherently a sign of weak faith. Instead, doubt can lead to a deeper trust in God’s mysterious plan, especially when we bring our uncertainties to Him in prayer.
2. Jesus as a Sign of Contradiction: Jesus’ mission and message often contradicted societal expectations. He did not come as a political ruler but as a servant, embracing suffering as a path to salvation. His life and message challenged the powerful and called for a redefinition of true greatness (cf. Luke 2:34).
3. Blessedness of Perseverance: Jesus declares that those who remain faithful to Him, despite confusion, suffering, or unmet expectations, are truly blessed. This beatitude echoes others, such as those found in the Sermon on the Mount, where blessings are promised to those who suffer for the sake of the Kingdom of God (Mt 5:10-12).
4. Invitation to Deeper Discipleship: Jesus’ call not to “take offense” invites believers to a deeper, more mature discipleship. This involves trusting Him even when His ways are difficult to understand, and embracing His teachings fully, even when they challenge personal comfort or preconceived notions.
Spiritual Significance
Jesus’ message in Matthew 11:6 calls Christians to remain steadfast in their faith, especially when faced with trials or uncertainty. Many in Jesus’ time, including religious authorities, found His approach offensive because He overturned traditional views on holiness, power, and the Kingdom of God. Similarly, modern Christians are called to embrace the full reality of Christ, even when it conflicts with personal or societal expectations.
Throughout history, countless believers – from martyrs facing persecution to everyday Christians grappling with personal struggles – have encountered the challenge of staying true to Christ when His ways seem difficult. The verse does not condemn honest doubt or questioning, but rather invites believers to move beyond disillusionment, deepening their understanding of God’s plan.
In moments of struggle or doubt, we are encouraged to bring our concerns to God, trusting in His wisdom and providence. As the prophet Isaiah reminds us, God’s ways are often beyond our understanding: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, declares the Lord” (Isa 55:8-9).
Conclusion
Matthew 11:6 serves as a powerful reminder to trust in Jesus, even when His ways challenge our understanding. Like John the Baptist, we may sometimes experience doubt or confusion, but we are called to place our faith in Christ’s wisdom and love. By persevering in faith, we open ourselves to the blessings of the Kingdom and the fulfillment of God’s plan in our lives.
Reflection
When have we felt tempted to take offense at God’s plan? In those moments of struggle or uncertainty, do we find ourselves questioning God’s goodness or doubting His presence in our lives? How can we, like John the Baptist, seek to deepen our faith rather than allow it to diminish?
Jesus’ words invite us to trust Him more deeply, especially when His ways seem difficult to understand. As Christians, we are called to persevere in faith, even when God’s plan does not align with our expectations.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You understand our human weakness and the challenges we face in our journey of faith. Help us to trust in Your goodness and love, even when we don’t understand Your ways. Deepen our faith, strengthen our resolve, and grant us the grace to remain steadfast in our love for You, no matter the circumstances. May we find the courage to embrace Your teachings fully and trust in Your divine plan. Amen.
CONCLUSION
In Matthew 11:2-6, we witness a profound moment of faith and uncertainty as John the Baptist, despite his earlier proclamations about Jesus, seeks clarity about the Messiah from his prison cell. Jesus’ response, pointing to His miraculous works, underscores the nature of His mission – a mission not bound by human expectations of political power but one rooted in divine mercy, healing, and spiritual liberation. This passage invites us to reflect on how we respond when God’s ways challenge our expectations, reminding us to seek Christ’s reassurance and trust in His plan even when we do not fully understand it.
For believers today, this encounter between John and Jesus encourages us to embrace moments of doubt as opportunities for deeper faith. Rather than seeing uncertainty as a failure of belief, we are called to bring our questions to Christ, trusting that His works and His love will guide us toward greater understanding. By turning to the signs of God’s kingdom – acts of love, healing, and mercy – we can find peace and reassurance in Jesus’ identity as the true Messiah and Redeemer, whose mission extends beyond human desires and fulfills the deepest needs of the soul.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, in moments of doubt, help us to turn to You with open hearts, trusting in Your wisdom and love. Just as John the Baptist sought assurance from Jesus, grant us the grace to seek Your presence in times of uncertainty. Strengthen our faith, deepen our trust in Your plan, and help us to recognize Your works of healing and mercy in our lives. May we always point others to You, sharing the Good News of Your salvation. Through Christ, our Lord. Amen.