“ When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples to ask him, 'Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?'” — Mat 11:2-3 (NIV)
The Prophets had a very important role in defending the faith of the Israelites. Prophets preach repentance and proclaim the way of God. John the Baptist was a prophet who acted and dressed and had a preaching style like the prophet Elijah, even in the power of Elijah (Luke 1:17). When Elijah was opposed and about to be killed, God always saved Elijah. Now John is in prison, but the Messiah does not save him. This incident raises questions: Is Jesus the promised Messiah? Should we expect someone else?
Jesus declared that he was the Messiah, so that John's disciples and the crowd would not be confused. Affirmation as the Messiah was not said in words, but rather in evidence.
Even though John once refused to be called Elijah (cf. John 1:19-21), Jesus praised John as Elijah in a spiritual sense, even greater than among those born of women (Matt 11:12-14, cf. Matthew 17:10-13 ). In front of John's followers, He confirmed that John's message was true. He was a true Prophet who was not easily swayed by popular opinions. For Jesus, John the Baptist is greater than other prophets because he prepares the way of Jesus, the Messiah himself. In the midst of doubts, Jesus himself strengthened John and his followers.
We live in a world that needs prophets. In what ways am I called to defend the truth? How do I imitate John the Baptist in preparing for the coming of Jesus? In doubt, God will always strengthen and encourage us with His words. When you doubt, remind yourself of the work of Jesus. Remind yourself of how the Gospel changes your life. We are invited to listen to His voice by faith. “Whoever has an ear let him hear!”
Reflection on Matthew 11:1-15 by Fr. Fransiskus Diaz, SVD
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