Matthew 11:7-11 NASBS
As these men were going away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? [8] But what did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Those who wear soft clothing are in kings’ palaces! [9] But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and one who is more than a prophet. [10] This is the one about whom it is written, ‘Behold, I SEND MY MESSENGER AHEAD OF YOU, WHO WILL PREPARE YOUR WAY BEFORE YOU.’ [11] Truly I say to you, among those born of women there has not arisen anyone greater than John the Baptist! Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
John was humble since he was the one who said Christ had to increase and he had to shrink.
He was obedient because he did exactly what was asked of him.
He was completely surrendered since he had dedicated his life to serving the Father.
Even in the face of death, he was courageous and never gave up. His moral principles and bravery were outstanding.
In the end, though, he doubted himself since he was only human. He went to his disciples and inquired if Jesus was the one or if he should wait for someone else.
It is important to note that John was the one who lumped for joy in his mother’s womb when Mary came to visit his mother Elizabeth.
He was the first person to be told that Jesus was the Christ who was not a member of Jesus’ family.
He was responsible for preparing the way for Jesus. He highlighted that Jesus was the Lamb of God who atoned for the world’s sins.
In the kingdom, he was the greatest son of a woman. He was a trailblazer. He was chosen to go before Jesus and pave the way for the Lord.
But he had his misgivings, which were understandable given the difficulties he was facing in that moment. When he faced death for the sake of righteousness, his conviction was brought to its knees. His faith was brought to its knees.
He doubted because he was only human, which is understandable.
When Jesus was approached by John’s disciples, and they made known John’s doubts and confessed his state of weakness, Jesus responded with encouragement rather than criticism.
And this serves as an example for everyone who serve the Lord. The lesson we learn is that it is acceptable to have doubts, be fearful, be weak, be lost, fail, and cry.
We fail. We are not, and will never be, above the perceived flaws that continuously surround us. This chapter teaches us how that it is ok to have doubts.
After all, God told nearly everyone He had a personal relationship with not to be fearful. After all, Jesus wept and was exceedingly lonely and sad at times. And that was him experiencing what every single human being goes through. (without sin)
Doubts, worries, feelings of loneliness, sorrow, despair, and even losing sight of the vision God has given us are things we all go through in our journey. God will not be angry with us for feeling weak.
What is not appropriate is to try to deal with all of these concerns on your own. God has a remedy for every problem, a word for every emotion, and an escape for every weakness.
He also asks us to come to Him with our flaws, fears, sorrows, tears, and deficiencies so that He with pour out his love and strengthen us.
This appears to be the main theme of Matthew 11 because, at the end of the chapter, Jesus turns to everyone and invites them to partake in the same medicine that he had provided to John. His encouraging words.
Christ says in Matthew 11:28-30 NASBS
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. [29] Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. [30] For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
This is for you, myself, and anyone else that approaches Him.
Don’t let sin, grief, hopelessness, or despair hinder you from experiencing God’s abundant grace! He is who he is: Immanuel, God with us. Come to him, you who are suffering, and he will give you rest!
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