Why did John the Baptist send his disciples to ask Jesus if he was the one to come?

John was in prison and could not see Jesus’ work for himself. His disciples brought him reports about Jesus, but they were upset that Jesus was getting the attention their teacher once had. John sends them to Jesus with this question, not because he has fully lost faith, but so his disciples can see with their own eyes who Jesus is. By doing this, John is gently leading them from doubt and jealousy toward trust in the true Messiah.

What does Jesus’ answer to John’s disciples show about who he is?

Jesus does not give a simple yes or no. Instead, he heals people in front of them: the blind receive sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, evil spirits are cast out, and even the dead are raised. He also has good news preached to the poor. These are the very things God had promised about his chosen Savior. By pointing to these works, Jesus is showing that he really is the one who was promised, without forcing belief, but inviting it.

What does it mean that the blind see, the lame walk, and the poor have the gospel preached?

These words describe the kind of work the promised Savior would do. Jesus is not only teaching, he is changing broken lives. Blind people are given sight, those who could not walk are healed, those with leprosy are made clean, and even the dead are raised. On top of that, the good news is brought to the poor, people who are often overlooked. This shows both his power and his compassion. He cares for bodies and souls, lifting up those who suffer and those the world ignores.

What does Jesus mean by “blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me”?

Jesus knows that some people will stumble over him because he does not match their expectations. Many wanted a powerful ruler who would take over by force, not a humble teacher who heals and preaches to the poor. To be “offended” in him is to turn away from him, doubt him, or resent the way he works. Jesus says that the one who does not trip over these things, but accepts him as he is and trusts him, is blessed. This is a gentle encouragement to John’s disciples and to anyone who struggles with doubt.

How does this passage speak to people who struggle with doubt today?

This passage shows that even someone as faithful as John the Baptist faced questions and needed reassurance. Jesus does not scold him. Instead, he gives clear evidence through his works and sends a kind answer back. For people today, this shows that bringing doubts to Jesus is not a sign of being cast off. We are invited to look at what Jesus has done, especially how he brings life, healing, and hope. The blessing is for those who, even with questions, choose not to turn away from him.

What was happening in John the Baptist’s life when he asked this question?

At this time, John was in prison because he had spoken boldly about sin. Cut off from the crowds and from Jesus’ public work, he had to rely on reports from his followers. They told him about Jesus’ miracles and growing fame, and this stirred questions and concern among them. From that place of suffering and uncertainty, John sends two disciples to Jesus. So this question comes from a dark and hard season, not from comfort or strength, which makes Jesus’ patient response even more kind.

What does this passage teach about Jesus’ heart toward the poor and suffering?

In this short scene, Jesus is surrounded by people with infirmities, plagues, and evil spirits. He heals many of them and gives sight to the blind. Then he points out that the good news is being preached to the poor. This shows that Jesus is not distant from pain. He moves toward those who are weak, sick, troubled, and overlooked. His answer to John is not just a list of powers, but a picture of mercy in action, showing that God cares deeply for those who are hurting.

Why is this passage sometimes difficult for readers to understand?

Some readers wonder how John, who once pointed to Jesus so clearly, could now send this question. Others are puzzled by Jesus not saying “Yes, I am” directly. This verse has been understood in more than one way. One way sees John himself wrestling with doubt from prison. Another sees John mainly guiding his disciples to Jesus so their doubts are answered. In both readings, the focus is on Jesus’ works and his gentle call to trust him without stumbling over how he chooses to work.

Luke.7.18

Luke 7:18

KJV

And the disciples of John shewed him of all these things.

John’s Inquiry

And the disciples of John shewed him of all these things.

And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?

When the men were come unto him, they said, John Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?

And in that same hour he cured many of their infirmities and plagues, and of evil spirits; and unto many that were blind he gave sight.

Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached.

And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.

Cross References

No cross references available for this verse.