John's Question (Lu 7:18-23)

Yesterday's reading was Mark 9, 11-12; Luke 7.

1. The context. John is in prison. He knows he doesn't have much time left. He needs to know: Had he properly identified Jesus as the Messiah?
2. The question. "Jesus, are you the Messiah or not?" Let's not make John more than human. It is only natural he might doubt. John wanted to know his life and ministry counted for something. He wanted to be sure he hadn't led anyone astray.
3. The issue. The title "Messiah" was a loaded term. For John it was associated with fire, judgment and deliverance (Mt 3:7-12). John saw none of that. Instead, what was the evidence he was to consider? Blind eyes were opened, lame limbs were in motion, skin diseases were cured, deaf ears were hearing, dead bodies were raised, poor people heard the gospel. Jesus' activity didn't match what John expected.
4. The gentleness. Jesus did not demean John for his honest question. Questions are always welcome with Jesus. He wants us to understand more deeply who He is. What's your perception of Jesus? Is it accurate and complete? Do you feel somehow Jesus hasn't measured up? It is okay to be honest with Him. Bring your questions to Jesus.