Matthew 11:3
And said unto him, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?
Matthew 11:3: "And said unto him, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?"
John’s disciples ask Jesus a pointed question from prison: is He the Messiah? John’s doubt arises from imprisonment and the perplexing timing of the Kingdom. Jesus’ response to the crowd’s perception reveals the nature of true messianic expectation and the signs that validate Jesus’ identity, including blind seeing, deaf ears, and the proclaimed good news to the poor. The question itself is a gateway to Jesus’ confirmation through his works and teachings, while also revealing the reality that faith sometimes wrestles with waiting and interpretation.
This scene deals with the reliability of God’s promises and the revelation of the Messiah. It shows that Jesus’ identity is publicly attested through signs, not simply by proclamation. It also demonstrates the patience of God with human doubt and the gracious way He reveals Himself through Jesus.
If you’re wrestling with discernment, seek God’s activity around you: how is Jesus at work in your life, your community, or the world? Look for concrete signs—compassion, justice, mercy, transformation. Engage in honest conversation with trusted believers, test Jesus’ words, and examine whether His promises align with reality.
Cross-References: Isaiah 35:4-6; Luke 7:19-23; John 5:36-40; Hebrews 2:3-4.