The King Has Come WK 3: The Witness of John the Baptist (Matt. 11:2-11)

I. Introduction

A. Setting the Context

1. Recap of Matthew's Gospel

2. John the Baptist's ministry and his role in preparing the way

Matthew 11:2–11 “2 When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples 3 to ask him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” 4 Jesus replied, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: 5 The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. 6 Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.” 7 As John’s disciples were leaving, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 8 If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear fine clothes are in kings’ palaces. 9 Then what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 10 This is the one about whom it is written: “ ‘I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.’ 11 Truly I tell you, among those born of w…”

II. John’s Doubt (Matthew 11:2-3)

A. John's Imprisonment

1. John's challenging circumstances

2. The reality of doubts and struggles, even for strong believers

B. The Question

1. John's question to Jesus: "Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?"

2. Examining the significance of this question

C. Application

1. Encouraging honesty in our relationship with God

2. Recognizing that doubt does not diminish faith but provides an opportunity for growth

III. Jesus' Response (Matthew 11:4-6)

A. Evidence of the Messiah

1. Miracles and signs as proof of Jesus' identity 2. Reference to Isaiah's prophecies (Isaiah 35:5-6; 61:1-2)

B. Blessed is the One who is not Offended

1. Understanding John's potential stumbling block

2. The call to trust in God's ways, even when they differ from our expectations

C. Application

1. Reflecting on the evidence of God's work in our lives

2. Embracing a faith that persists through challenges and apparent contradictions

IV. John's Unique Role (Matthew 11:7-11)

A. Jesus' Affirmation of John

1. Commending John's ministry and character

2. Highlighting John's pivotal role in God's plan

B. The Least in the Kingdom

1. Comparing John to others in the Kingdom

2. Understanding the greatness of those who humble themselves

C. Application

1. Embracing humility and servanthood in our walk with Christ

2. Recognizing the unique contributions each believer makes to God's Kingdom

V. Conclusion

A. Summarizing the Witness of John the Baptist

1. John's honesty in doubt

2. Jesus' affirmation and the uniqueness of John's role

B. Encouragement for the Faith Journey

1. Embracing doubt as an opportunity for growth

2. Trusting in God's ways, even when they differ from our expectations