New Testament
Matthew 11:7
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As John's disciples were leaving, Jesus turned to the crowds and spoke about John. "When you went out into the wilderness, what did you expect to see? A blade of grass swaying in the wind?
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And as they departed, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind?
What Matthew 11:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus addresses the crowds after John's disciples leave. He questions what they expected to find when they went to see John the Baptist in the wilderness. By asking if they thought they would see a reed swaying in the wind, Jesus highlights that John was not a weak or indecisive figure. Instead, John was a strong and resolute prophet who boldly proclaimed the truth. This rhetorical question serves to elevate John's role and clarify that he was not just a temporary or superficial figure, but a significant messenger of God. Jesus uses this moment to affirm John's importance and to challenge the crowd's perceptions about true prophetic authority. The imagery of a reed suggests something fragile and easily swayed, contrasting with John's steadfastness in his mission. This sets the stage for a deeper understanding of John's character and the nature of his ministry, emphasizing the strength and conviction required to fulfill God's calling.
How to apply Matthew 11:7 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our expectations of spiritual leaders. Are we looking for strength and conviction, or are we swayed by superficial qualities? It challenges us to seek out and support those who stand firm in their faith and mission, like John.
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 11:7 mean?
Matthew 11:7 features Jesus questioning the crowd about their expectations of John the Baptist. He uses the imagery of a reed swaying in the wind to emphasize that John was not weak or indecisive, but rather a strong and resolute prophet.
What is the significance of the reed in Matthew 11:7?
The reed in Matthew 11:7 symbolizes something fragile and easily swayed. By referencing it, Jesus contrasts this image with John the Baptist's steadfastness and strength in proclaiming God's message.
How does Matthew 11:7 relate to expectations of leaders?
Matthew 11:7 encourages us to examine our expectations of spiritual leaders. It prompts us to value strength and conviction over superficial qualities, as exemplified by John the Baptist.
What can we learn from John the Baptist in Matthew 11:7?
From Matthew 11:7, we learn that John the Baptist exemplifies courage and steadfastness in his mission. His example encourages us to seek and support leaders who demonstrate strong faith and commitment.
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