New Testament
Matthew 11:4
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Jesus told them, "Go back and tell John what you're hearing and seeing for yourselves:
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Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see:
What Matthew 11:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus responds to the disciples of John the Baptist, who are seeking confirmation about His identity and mission. He instructs them to report back to John what they have witnessed: the miracles He has performed and the teachings He has shared. This response emphasizes the importance of personal experience and observation in understanding who Jesus is. By encouraging them to share the evidence of His works, Jesus affirms that His actions align with the prophecies about the Messiah. This moment highlights the connection between faith and the tangible realities of Jesus' ministry, inviting John to find reassurance in the fulfillment of God's promises. It also serves as a reminder that faith can be strengthened through witnessing God's work in the world.
How to apply Matthew 11:4 to your life
When faced with doubts about faith or God's presence, we can look to the evidence of His work in our lives and the lives of others. Sharing our experiences and testimonies can strengthen our faith and encourage those around us.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from John the Baptist's story: John's Question from Prison (Matthew 11:2–19)
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John the Baptist
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 11:4 mean?
In Matthew 11:4, Jesus instructs the disciples of John the Baptist to report back to John about the miracles and teachings they have witnessed. This emphasizes the importance of personal experience in understanding Jesus' identity as the Messiah.
What does 'Go and show John again' mean in Matthew 11:4?
The phrase 'Go and show John again' means that Jesus wants John's disciples to provide him with clear evidence of His miracles and teachings. It reinforces the idea that witnessing Jesus' actions can affirm faith.
How does Matthew 11:4 relate to faith?
Matthew 11:4 relates to faith by illustrating that personal experiences and observations of Jesus' works can strengthen belief. Jesus encourages sharing these experiences to help others, including John, find reassurance.
What themes are present in Matthew 11:4?
Key themes in Matthew 11:4 include faith, witnessing, the identity of the Messiah, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the importance of personal experience in understanding Jesus' ministry.
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