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Matthew 11:6
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- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
And blessed is he whosoever shall not be offended in me. The Jews were offended at Christ's parentage and birth, at the poverty of his parents, and at the manner of his birth, by a virgin; and at the place of his birth, which they thought to be Galilee; at his education, because he had not learnt letters, and was brought up to a mechanical employment; at his mean appearance in his public ministry, in his own person, and in his attendants: his company and audience being the poorer sort, the more ignorant, and who had been loose and scandalous persons, publicans and sinners; at the doctrines he preached, particularly, which respected his own deity and eternity, the distinguished grace of God, and living by faith upon his flesh and blood. The disciples of John also were offended in him, because he and his disciples did not fast, and lead such an austere life as they and their master did; because of the meanness and obscurity of Christ's kingdom; the imprisonment of John, and the many reproaches, afflictions, and persecutions, which did, and were likely to attend a profession of Christ: this our Lord knew, and had a peculiar respect to them in these words; but happy are those persons, who, notwithstanding all these difficulties and discouragements, are so far from stumbling at Christ, and falling from him, that they heartily receive him and believe in him, make a profession of him, and hold it fast; greatly love, highly value, and esteem him, and are willing to part with all, and bear all for his sake: these are blessed, notwithstanding all their sufferings for him even now; they have spiritual peace, joy, and comfort in their souls, and shall be happy in the full enjoyment of him to all eternity. And blessed is he whosoever shall not be offended in me. The Jews were offended at Christ's parentage and birth, at the poverty of his parents, and at the manner of his birth, by a virgin; and at the place of his birth, which they thought to be Galilee; at his education, because he had not learnt letters, and was brought up to a mechanical employment; at his mean appearance in his public ministry, in his own person, and in his attendants: his company and audience being the poorer sort, the more ignorant, and who had been loose and scandalous persons, publicans and sinners; at the doctrines he preached, particularly, which respected his own deity and eternity, the distinguished grace of God, and living by faith upon his flesh and blood. The disciples of John also were offended in him, because he and his disciples did not fast, and lead such an austere life as they and their master did; because of the meanness and obscurity of Christ's kingdom; the imprisonment of John, and the many reproaches, afflictions, and persecutions, which did, and were likely to attend a profession of Christ: this our Lord knew, and had a peculiar respect to them in these words; but happy are those persons, who, notwithstanding all these difficulties and discouragements, are so far from stumbling at Christ, and falling from him, that they heartily receive him and believe in him, make a profession of him, and hold it fast; greatly love, highly value, and esteem him, and are willing to part with all, and bear all for his sake: these are blessed, notwithstanding all their sufferings for him even now; they have spiritual peace, joy, and comfort in their souls, and shall be happy in the full enjoyment of him to all eternity. Matthew 11:7 mat 11:7 mat 11:7 mat 11:7And as they departed,.... That is, the messengers of John, Luk 7:24 when they returned to their master, to give an account to him of what they had heard and seen, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John; he took this opportunity before the whole company, who had heard what passed in conversation between him and the disciples of John, to say some things concerning his character and ministry: and which he did, partly to rectify and remove any wrong opinion they might have conceived of him, from this message of his, as if he had retracted his former sentiments concerning Christ, at least was wavering and doubtful about him; and partly, to put them in mind of their former zeal and attachment to John's ministry, when they went out in large bodies to attend upon it; and to revive a good opinion of him; and signifies, that they would do well to ask themselves, what views they had in attending on him, and how they came to grow indifferent to so great a man: and Christ, by giving an account of his character and office, confirms his own Messiahship; and this commendation of John, he chose to enter into, after the departure of his messengers, lest what he said of him should be interpreted as mere flattery: what went ye out in the wilderness to see? This refers to Mat 3:5 where we read, that great numbers from Jerusalem, Judea, and the country round about Jordan, went out into the wilderness of Judea, where John came preaching, to hear him, and be baptized by him; and our Lord asks, what was it that led such multitudes of them into the wilderness? What did they expect to see there? A reed shaken with the wind? This may either refer to John's gesture in preaching, who might wave to and fro as a reed does, when shaken by the wind; and Christ's question is, did ye go out only to see and observe the preacher's gesture, to see him move his body to and fro? Was it not to hear his doctrine, and receive benefit for your souls? And did you not? Wherefore, you ought still to retain a valuable respect for him. Or this may regard their opinion of him; and the sense of the interrogation is, when you first went out to him, did you take him to be an unstable, inconstant man? Like a reed shaken with every wind! If you did, you were mistaken; he was firm and stable in his sentiments and ministry, his preaching was not yea and nay, his doctrine was all of a piece; he stood to it, that he was not the Messiah, but his forerunner; the testimony he bore was always alike, consistent with himself, and he is the same man now he ever was. The Jews use this comparison of a man to a reed, in a sense just the reverse, and make it to signify constancy, and not inconstancy, as well as tenderness, in opposition to roughness, severity, and stubbornness. "Let a man (say they (w)) be always , "tender as a reed", and let him not be hard and stubborn as a cedar: when the four winds of the world go out, the reed goes and comes with them; and when the winds are still, the reed stands in its place.'' So they observe (x), that it is said, that "the Lord shall smite Israel, as a reed shaken in the water", Kg1 14:15 which they interpret by way of blessing. "As a reed (say they) stands in a place of water, its body waves about, and its roots are many; and though all the winds in the world come and blow upon it, they cannot move it out of its place, but it goes and comes with them; and when the winds are still, the reed stands in its place.'' (w) Derech Eretz, fol. 18. 1. (x) T. Bab. Taanith, fol. 20. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:6 who do not fall away because of me: The works listed in 11:5 were intended to drive John and his disciples to a decision regarding Jesus. Jesus was aware, however, that certain unexpected elements of his ministry would cause some to reject him.
Matthew 11:6
John’s Inquiry
5The blind receive sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. 6Blessed is the one who does not fall away on account of Me. ”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Blessedness of the Unoffended
By T. Austin-Sparks14K32:32Offences2KI 2:1MAT 6:33MAT 11:2MAT 11:6MAT 11:11HEB 10:35In this sermon, the preacher begins by reading a passage from the book of 2 Kings, where Elijah is taken up to heaven by a whirlwind. The preacher then shifts to discussing the story of John the Baptist, who is in prison and facing a difficult situation. Despite his circumstances, John remains devoted to his calling and continues to proclaim the coming of the Messiah. The preacher emphasizes the importance of holding on to faith and not giving up, using the example of Elisha who refused to let go of Elijah until he received a blessing. The sermon concludes by encouraging the listeners to have confidence in God's unshakable kingdom and to seek a substantial and sure foundation in their faith.
Home Before Dark
By Vance Havner5.4K30:55PSA 37:7PSA 66:16PRO 3:5ISA 41:10MAT 11:6MAT 11:11JHN 10:28In this sermon, the speaker begins by sharing a personal testimony about the importance of giving testimonies and sharing one's individual experiences. He references Psalm 66:16-20, where the psalmist declares what God has done for his soul. The speaker then shares a story about Mr. Sanky, who despite having a cracked voice, played a piece on the organ titled "There'll be no dark valley when Jesus comes." The sermon also touches on the current state of the world and the need for serious thinking. The speaker concludes by reflecting on his own journey of coming to Jesus at a young age and his calling to preach the gospel.
Sparrows in the Church
By Vance Havner2.7K30:30PSA 46:1PSA 84:3PSA 91:1MAT 5:11MAT 6:33MAT 11:6In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the limitations of our physical bodies and senses. He emphasizes that our eyes can only see the external appearance of others, while our ears can only hear the sounds around us. He also discusses the temporary nature of our physical bodies, highlighting that when our bodies die, our souls continue to live forever with Jesus. The preacher then shifts his focus to the mysteries of life, acknowledging that there are things we may not fully understand, but we can still find joy in the knowledge we have. He mentions his experience of writing a book and receiving messages from people who have experienced loss, emphasizing the comfort and richness he has found in his faith. The sermon concludes with the preacher mentioning his intention to talk about sparrows and nature as depicted in the Bible, but also humorously mentioning the need to be cautious of Bible scholars who may correct his interpretations.
God Has the Last Laugh
By Vance Havner2.5K28:01Justice Of GodISA 40:31MAT 6:33MAT 11:6JHN 1:29ROM 8:28In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the slowness of God's actions and the presence of evil in the world. He quotes James Russell Lowe's poem, emphasizing the idea that truth is often oppressed while wrong prevails. The preacher then discusses the story of Jesus healing the blind men, highlighting the different methods Jesus used to restore their sight. He encourages the audience to focus on whether they have been touched by God, rather than their emotional experiences, and to have faith in God's plan for the world.
(Matthew) ch.25:14-26:32
By Zac Poonen2.0K59:17MAT 11:6MAT 25:14MAT 25:45MAT 26:14MAT 26:29JAS 2:14In this sermon on Matthew 25:14-30, the preacher focuses on the parable of the talents and its implications for the second coming of Christ. The parable teaches responsibility and accountability to God for the gifts and talents He has given us. The emphasis is not on the quantity of what we produce, but on the quality and faithfulness with what we have. The sermon highlights three aspects of our life: our inner relationship with God, our accountability for all the gifts we have received, and our treatment of fellow believers in need. The ultimate goal is to hear the commendation from the Lord, "Well done, good and faithful servant."
Lake Johanna Conference
By Vance Havner1.8K39:44ConferenceAMO 7:10MAT 11:6LUK 19:17JHN 1:29JHN 9:6In this sermon, the preacher reflects on various aspects of faith and the journey of a believer. The sermon begins with a question about a doctor's actions in the past, but quickly transitions to the preacher's focus on the blessings and assurance found in God. The preacher mentions several hymns and scriptures that emphasize the nearness of Jesus and the redemption offered through Him. The sermon also touches on the preacher's personal journey as a young minister and the challenges he faced, ultimately finding solace in trusting the Lord.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
God's Work in the Life of His Servants
By Vance Havner1.4K37:31Work Of GodPSA 66:16PSA 84:6MAT 11:6JHN 1:29In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the unchanging nature of the gospel. He uses an analogy of tasting different concoctions to highlight that the water of life, representing the gospel, does not need any flavoring or new labels. The preacher also mentions the advancements in science and technology, but reminds the audience that despite these changes, the truths of sin, judgment, eternity, and salvation remain the same. He shares personal experiences and challenges faced in his ministry, including the influence of new ideas and the Scopes trial. The sermon concludes with the preacher encouraging the audience to be faithful stewards and to trust in God's timing and plan for their lives.
God Cares for the Sparrow
By Vance Havner1.3K30:46ProvisionPSA 84:3MAT 5:11MAT 6:33MAT 10:29MAT 11:6LUK 7:22ACT 17:24In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the mysteries of life and the greatness of God. He shares a personal experience at a seminary and emphasizes the importance of faith in times of loneliness and uncertainty. The speaker reminds the audience that God is always watching over them, even when they feel alone. He also discusses the temporary nature of our physical bodies and the eternal nature of our souls. The sermon concludes with a reminder that God collects and values our tears, as they can lead to valuable lessons and visions.
John the Baptist Willing to Be Excelled - Part 2
By Roy Hession71159:31John The BaptistISA 44:6ISA 45:21MAT 6:33MAT 11:6JHN 14:6ACT 4:12COL 2:9In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the early days of their conferences at Abigail, where a group of people gathered to learn about Jesus. They emphasize that Jesus is the source of good news and blessings, and that a rediscovery of grace and the power of his blood brings peace to the soul. The speaker shares a story about a gold mining company that found abundant gold, highlighting the potential for growth and abundance in their own ministry. They also discuss the doubts and struggles of John the Baptist, who questioned if Jesus was truly the promised one. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the importance of deepening one's faith in Jesus and trusting in his power.
Our Pattern, Trials & Growth
By John Follette5942:06:06TrialsMAT 11:6MAT 13:3MAT 13:18MAT 21:21MAT 23:13MAT 25:14MRK 4:34In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of John the Baptist and his doubts while in jail. John questions whether Jesus is truly the Messiah, as he expected a different outcome for himself. He sends messengers to Jesus to ask if he is the one they have been waiting for. Jesus responds by performing miracles and preaching the gospel, but also tells the messengers to tell John that blessed is he who is not offended by him. The speaker emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's plan and not being stumbled by unexpected circumstances.
Waking Up From the Fear of Insignificance
By Stewart Ruch39525:01InsecurityISA 40:3MAT 6:33MAT 11:6MAT 11:11MAT 11:28In this sermon, the speaker discusses the fear of living a life of insignificance. He uses the example of the character Salieri from the movie Amadeus, who feels his own life is insignificant compared to the brilliance of Mozart. The speaker then explores the two elements that fuel the fear of insignificance: suffering and a lack of purpose. However, Jesus offers a different perspective by painting a picture of a significant life through the example of John the Baptist.
Reconciliation
By Vance Havner16137:13ReconciliationMAT 5:3MAT 11:6MAT 23:13LUK 7:22LUK 9:62ROM 8:29In this sermon, the preacher discusses the idea that understanding is the key to solving problems. He criticizes the notion that child psychology books can explain and justify children's negative behaviors. The preacher emphasizes the importance of dialogue and reconciliation in preventing conflicts and promoting peace. He concludes by reminding the audience of the sacrifice of Jesus and the need for reconciliation with God.
Is Jesus Your Friend
By Phil Beach Jr.381:02:24Friendship with JesusJesusThe Truth in LovePSA 51:10PRO 27:6ISA 57:15MAT 11:6LUK 8:21JHN 8:32JHN 15:15ROM 12:2JAS 4:41JN 1:8Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes that Jesus is our only true friend, one who tells us the truth in love, unlike earthly friends who may flatter or deceive us. He highlights the struggle we face in accepting the truth about ourselves, often preferring superficial relationships that do not challenge us. The sermon calls for a deep love for truth, urging believers to seek a genuine relationship with Jesus, which requires dying to self and embracing His words. Beach Jr. reminds us that true friendship with Jesus involves hearing and obeying His word, which can be difficult but ultimately liberating. He concludes with a plea for healing from self-love and a desire to be transformed into lovers of truth.
Loving Jesus Without Offense (Mt. 11:6)
By Mike Bickle2452:23Loving JesusOvercoming OffenseMAT 11:2MAT 11:6Mike Bickle emphasizes the necessity of loving Jesus without offense, highlighting that true love for Him stems from gratitude for His perfect leadership, which is always motivated by love and wisdom. He warns that the devil seeks to instill doubt about Jesus's goodness, leading to offense in our hearts, which hinders our ability to love Him fully. Bickle illustrates this through the story of John the Baptist, who, despite his impending death, prepared his disciples to trust in Jesus's leadership. He stresses that overcoming offense is crucial for believers to grow in love and effectively represent Jesus in the world. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a deep understanding of Jesus's goodness to foster a genuine and unoffended love for Him.
Crumbs for Dogs
By Phil Beach Jr.2054:41Christian LifeHumilityGrace and MercyJOB 42:6MAT 11:6MAT 15:21JHN 2:24JHN 3:19Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the profound love of Jesus for His enemies, illustrating how we often resist acknowledging our own sins and shortcomings. He reflects on the story of the Canaanite woman, who humbly accepted her status as a 'dog' in need of mercy, demonstrating that true faith comes from recognizing our need for grace. Beach challenges the congregation to confront their pride and self-righteousness, urging them to embrace humility and seek forgiveness at the foot of the cross. He reminds us that human love can turn to hatred when our self-image is threatened, but Jesus calls us to love our enemies as He loves us. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep, honest relationship with God, where we acknowledge our sins and accept His mercy.
Dealing With Offence
By Albert Zehr2GEN 50:20ISA 62:10MAT 11:6MAT 15:12MAT 24:10MAT 26:31LUK 7:23JHN 6:61JHN 11:21HEB 12:51PE 2:23Albert Zehr preaches on the importance of dealing with offence in the church to prepare for God's mighty move. He emphasizes the need to remove stumbling blocks that hinder believers from joining the race, using examples like Absalom's downfall due to offence. Zehr highlights the value of overcoming offence, drawing from biblical figures like Joseph, Moses, and David who remained useful to God by not taking the bait of offence. He stresses the critical nature of addressing and resolving offences in these last days to avoid falling away and being deceived by false prophets.
Not Offended by Jesus
By David Wilkerson0Trusting God's PlanFaith in TrialsMAT 11:6JAS 1:2David Wilkerson emphasizes that God allows crises in our lives to reveal the roots of our unbelief, such as pride and self-sufficiency. He illustrates this through the trial of John the Baptist, who, while imprisoned and facing execution, questioned God's presence and purpose. Jesus reassured John that those who are not offended by Him are blessed, reminding him that God's plans are ultimately for His glory and our eternal benefit. Wilkerson encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty, even in the midst of intense testing and uncertainty. John remained faithful until the end, demonstrating the power of unwavering faith.
Compared View of the First Three Gospels, Etc.
By John Nelson Darby0The GospelsChrist's MinistryMAT 1:1MAT 4:17MAT 5:1MAT 9:35MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 1:14LUK 3:23LUK 4:18John Nelson Darby discusses the distinct characteristics and purposes of the first three Gospels, emphasizing that Mark presents a chronological account of Christ's service, while Matthew focuses on the presentation of Jesus as the Messiah and the implications of His rejection. He notes that Luke, while generally following Mark's order, includes moral teachings that are unique to his Gospel. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the genealogies and the context of Christ's ministry, particularly in relation to Israel's expectations and the establishment of the church. He concludes that the Gospels collectively reveal the nature of Christ's mission and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.
Our Daily Homily - Matthew
By F.B. Meyer0SalvationFaith and ObedienceMAT 1:21MAT 5:45MAT 6:18MAT 7:2MAT 9:22MAT 10:27MAT 11:6MAT 22:37MAT 26:28MAT 28:5F.B. Meyer emphasizes that Jesus' mission was to save His people from their sins, not merely from the consequences of sin. He highlights the importance of understanding the full scope of salvation, which includes deliverance from the power of sin and the establishment of God's kingdom. Meyer also reflects on the significance of faith, obedience, and the necessity of a personal relationship with Christ, urging believers to live out their faith actively and to seek a deeper connection with God. He encourages the congregation to recognize their role in God's plan and to respond to His call with trust and action.
Not Easily Offended
By D.L. Moody0Peace in ChristImportance of ScripturePSA 119:165MAT 11:6JHN 14:27HEB 5:121PE 2:2D.L. Moody emphasizes the importance of being rooted in the Word of God to maintain peace and avoid being easily offended. He points out that those who neglect their Bible study are often disturbed by minor troubles and persecutions, while those who love God's law experience great peace. Moody illustrates that true peace comes from Christ and cannot be taken away by the world. He warns that neglecting spiritual nourishment leads to weakness and offense, comparing the care we give our physical bodies to the neglect of our souls. Ultimately, he calls for Christians to feed their inner man with the Word of God to thrive in faith.
The Little Servant-Maid
By Raymond Golsworthy01KI 16:33PSA 115:1JER 45:5MAT 11:6ACT 1:81CO 1:271CO 13:4EPH 3:81PE 2:11Raymond Golsworthy preaches on the remarkable story of the little maid in 2 Kings 5:2, who despite being a stranger in a strange land, among the 'are-nots' of the world, and coming from a background of suffering, became a powerful instrument for God's blessing. Through her unoffended spirit and focus on speaking about Elisha, she exemplified key characteristics that God values in His servants, emphasizing the importance of bearing witness to Christ in a dark and needy world.
The Forgotten Beatitude
By Vance Havner0Trusting God's PlanFaith in DoubtMAT 11:6MAT 13:54Vance Havner emphasizes the often overlooked beatitude, 'Blessed is he who keeps from stumbling over me,' as he reflects on John the Baptist's doubts while imprisoned. He draws parallels between John’s struggles and the common experiences of believers facing depression and doubt in their own 'dungeons.' Havner reassures that even the greatest prophets faced moments of despair, and Jesus responded to John with compassion rather than condemnation. The sermon encourages believers to trust in God's plan, even when it seems contrary to their expectations, and to find peace in the assurance that God is always at work, fulfilling His promises. Ultimately, the message is about maintaining faith and not being offended by Jesus, regardless of circumstances.
Gathering With Christ
By Vance Havner0Trusting God's PlanFaith in AdversityMAT 5:3MAT 11:6Vance Havner emphasizes the importance of not stumbling over Jesus, especially during times of doubt and depression, as exemplified by John the Baptist's struggles in prison. He highlights that even the strongest believers can experience moments of weakness and questioning, yet Jesus offers understanding and reassurance rather than condemnation. Havner encourages believers to trust in God's plan, even when it seems contrary to their expectations, and to embrace the 'Forgotten Beatitude' of remaining unoffended by Christ's ways. He reminds us that true faith is tested in adversity, and that we should focus on the blessings of belief without needing to see. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper trust in God's timing and purpose, assuring us that Christ is always on schedule.
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
And blessed is he whosoever shall not be offended in me. The Jews were offended at Christ's parentage and birth, at the poverty of his parents, and at the manner of his birth, by a virgin; and at the place of his birth, which they thought to be Galilee; at his education, because he had not learnt letters, and was brought up to a mechanical employment; at his mean appearance in his public ministry, in his own person, and in his attendants: his company and audience being the poorer sort, the more ignorant, and who had been loose and scandalous persons, publicans and sinners; at the doctrines he preached, particularly, which respected his own deity and eternity, the distinguished grace of God, and living by faith upon his flesh and blood. The disciples of John also were offended in him, because he and his disciples did not fast, and lead such an austere life as they and their master did; because of the meanness and obscurity of Christ's kingdom; the imprisonment of John, and the many reproaches, afflictions, and persecutions, which did, and were likely to attend a profession of Christ: this our Lord knew, and had a peculiar respect to them in these words; but happy are those persons, who, notwithstanding all these difficulties and discouragements, are so far from stumbling at Christ, and falling from him, that they heartily receive him and believe in him, make a profession of him, and hold it fast; greatly love, highly value, and esteem him, and are willing to part with all, and bear all for his sake: these are blessed, notwithstanding all their sufferings for him even now; they have spiritual peace, joy, and comfort in their souls, and shall be happy in the full enjoyment of him to all eternity. And blessed is he whosoever shall not be offended in me. The Jews were offended at Christ's parentage and birth, at the poverty of his parents, and at the manner of his birth, by a virgin; and at the place of his birth, which they thought to be Galilee; at his education, because he had not learnt letters, and was brought up to a mechanical employment; at his mean appearance in his public ministry, in his own person, and in his attendants: his company and audience being the poorer sort, the more ignorant, and who had been loose and scandalous persons, publicans and sinners; at the doctrines he preached, particularly, which respected his own deity and eternity, the distinguished grace of God, and living by faith upon his flesh and blood. The disciples of John also were offended in him, because he and his disciples did not fast, and lead such an austere life as they and their master did; because of the meanness and obscurity of Christ's kingdom; the imprisonment of John, and the many reproaches, afflictions, and persecutions, which did, and were likely to attend a profession of Christ: this our Lord knew, and had a peculiar respect to them in these words; but happy are those persons, who, notwithstanding all these difficulties and discouragements, are so far from stumbling at Christ, and falling from him, that they heartily receive him and believe in him, make a profession of him, and hold it fast; greatly love, highly value, and esteem him, and are willing to part with all, and bear all for his sake: these are blessed, notwithstanding all their sufferings for him even now; they have spiritual peace, joy, and comfort in their souls, and shall be happy in the full enjoyment of him to all eternity. Matthew 11:7 mat 11:7 mat 11:7 mat 11:7And as they departed,.... That is, the messengers of John, Luk 7:24 when they returned to their master, to give an account to him of what they had heard and seen, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John; he took this opportunity before the whole company, who had heard what passed in conversation between him and the disciples of John, to say some things concerning his character and ministry: and which he did, partly to rectify and remove any wrong opinion they might have conceived of him, from this message of his, as if he had retracted his former sentiments concerning Christ, at least was wavering and doubtful about him; and partly, to put them in mind of their former zeal and attachment to John's ministry, when they went out in large bodies to attend upon it; and to revive a good opinion of him; and signifies, that they would do well to ask themselves, what views they had in attending on him, and how they came to grow indifferent to so great a man: and Christ, by giving an account of his character and office, confirms his own Messiahship; and this commendation of John, he chose to enter into, after the departure of his messengers, lest what he said of him should be interpreted as mere flattery: what went ye out in the wilderness to see? This refers to Mat 3:5 where we read, that great numbers from Jerusalem, Judea, and the country round about Jordan, went out into the wilderness of Judea, where John came preaching, to hear him, and be baptized by him; and our Lord asks, what was it that led such multitudes of them into the wilderness? What did they expect to see there? A reed shaken with the wind? This may either refer to John's gesture in preaching, who might wave to and fro as a reed does, when shaken by the wind; and Christ's question is, did ye go out only to see and observe the preacher's gesture, to see him move his body to and fro? Was it not to hear his doctrine, and receive benefit for your souls? And did you not? Wherefore, you ought still to retain a valuable respect for him. Or this may regard their opinion of him; and the sense of the interrogation is, when you first went out to him, did you take him to be an unstable, inconstant man? Like a reed shaken with every wind! If you did, you were mistaken; he was firm and stable in his sentiments and ministry, his preaching was not yea and nay, his doctrine was all of a piece; he stood to it, that he was not the Messiah, but his forerunner; the testimony he bore was always alike, consistent with himself, and he is the same man now he ever was. The Jews use this comparison of a man to a reed, in a sense just the reverse, and make it to signify constancy, and not inconstancy, as well as tenderness, in opposition to roughness, severity, and stubbornness. "Let a man (say they (w)) be always , "tender as a reed", and let him not be hard and stubborn as a cedar: when the four winds of the world go out, the reed goes and comes with them; and when the winds are still, the reed stands in its place.'' So they observe (x), that it is said, that "the Lord shall smite Israel, as a reed shaken in the water", Kg1 14:15 which they interpret by way of blessing. "As a reed (say they) stands in a place of water, its body waves about, and its roots are many; and though all the winds in the world come and blow upon it, they cannot move it out of its place, but it goes and comes with them; and when the winds are still, the reed stands in its place.'' (w) Derech Eretz, fol. 18. 1. (x) T. Bab. Taanith, fol. 20. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:6 who do not fall away because of me: The works listed in 11:5 were intended to drive John and his disciples to a decision regarding Jesus. Jesus was aware, however, that certain unexpected elements of his ministry would cause some to reject him.