Matthew 11:4

Jesus replied, "Go back and report to John what you hear and see:

Study Bible

Jesus replied
The phrase "Jesus replied" indicates a direct response from Jesus, showcasing His willingness to engage with the questions and doubts of others. In the Greek, the word for "replied" is "ἀποκριθεὶς" (apokritheis), which implies a thoughtful and deliberate answer. This reflects Jesus' role as a teacher and guide, always ready to provide clarity and reassurance. His response is not just a simple answer but a profound teaching moment, emphasizing His authority and understanding.

Go back
The instruction to "Go back" is significant in its directive nature. The Greek word "πορευθέντες" (poreuthentes) suggests a purposeful journey or mission. Jesus is sending John's disciples back with a message, indicating the importance of their role as messengers. This highlights the theme of mission and the responsibility of believers to carry the truth to others, reinforcing the idea that faith is active and involves sharing the good news.

and report
The word "report" comes from the Greek "ἀπαγγείλατε" (apangeilate), meaning to announce or declare. This is not merely a casual conversation but an official proclamation. Jesus is instructing them to bear witness to what they have observed, underscoring the importance of testimony in the Christian faith. It emphasizes the power of personal experience and observation in validating the truth of Jesus' ministry.

to John
Referring to John the Baptist, this phrase places the narrative in a specific historical and relational context. John, who had baptized Jesus and proclaimed His coming, is now in prison and experiencing doubt. Jesus' message to John is one of reassurance and confirmation of His messianic identity. This highlights the human aspect of doubt and the need for reassurance, even among the most faithful.

what you hear and see
This phrase emphasizes the empirical evidence of Jesus' works and teachings. The Greek words "ἀκούετε" (akouete) for "hear" and "βλέπετε" (blepete) for "see" suggest a sensory confirmation of Jesus' identity and mission. This dual emphasis on hearing and seeing underscores the comprehensive nature of the evidence for Jesus' messiahship. It reflects the biblical principle that faith is not blind but is supported by tangible evidence of God's work in the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure of the New Testament, the Son of God, who is responding to a question from John the Baptist's disciples.

2. John the Baptist
A prophet and forerunner of Jesus, who is currently imprisoned and has sent his disciples to inquire about Jesus' identity and mission.

3. Disciples of John
Followers of John the Baptist who are tasked with delivering John's question to Jesus and reporting back His response.

4. Galilee
The region where Jesus is performing His ministry, including teaching and performing miracles, which are the basis of His response to John's inquiry.

5. Miracles and Teachings of Jesus
The events that Jesus refers to in His response, which include healing the sick, raising the dead, and preaching the good news to the poor.

Teaching Points

Evidence of the Messiah
Jesus provides tangible evidence of His identity through His works, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and demonstrating His divine authority.

Faith in Action
Believers are encouraged to look for the evidence of God's work in their lives and the world around them, strengthening their faith through observation and testimony.

Responding to Doubt
Like John the Baptist, believers may experience doubt. Jesus' response teaches us to seek answers in the works and words of Christ, which affirm His truth and mission.

Witnessing to Others
Just as John's disciples were sent to report what they heard and saw, Christians are called to share their experiences of Christ's work in their lives with others.

The Role of Miracles
Miracles serve as a testament to Jesus' divine nature and mission, encouraging believers to trust in His power and sovereignty.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' response to John's disciples in Matthew 11:4 demonstrate His understanding of human doubt and the need for reassurance?

2. In what ways can we, like John's disciples, "report what we hear and see" about Jesus' work in our lives to others?

3. How do the miracles and teachings of Jesus in the Gospels serve as evidence of His messianic identity, and how can this strengthen our faith today?

4. What Old Testament prophecies are fulfilled by Jesus' actions as described in Matthew 11:4-5, and why is this significant for understanding His mission?

5. How can we apply the principle of seeking evidence of God's work in our lives when we face doubts or challenges in our faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 35:5-6
This Old Testament prophecy describes the signs of the Messiah, such as the blind seeing and the lame walking, which Jesus fulfills and refers to in His response.

Luke 7:22
A parallel account of this event, providing additional context and details about the miracles Jesus performed as evidence of His messianic identity.

Matthew 11:5
The verse following Matthew 11:4, where Jesus elaborates on the specific miracles and acts of compassion that validate His ministry.