"Christ's Testimony Concerning John"

In this section, the Jews rebel against every revelation Christ gave of himself:


He was announced by John ---They allowed John to be arrested 11:1-9
He performed many miracles ---The cities refused to repent 11:20-30
He announced His principles ---They argued with him about them 12:1-21
He revealed His person ---They said He worked with Satan 12:22-50


The result of course, is that Jesus turns from the nation (chapter 14-20) and looks toward the cross. What began as REBELLION here becomes open REJECTION later on.


John had been in prison a long time now (4:12). Why did John doubt Christ's Kingship, when he had been told by the Spirit who Christ was? (John 1:29-34) The answer is in the word "another", when John asked, "Or do we look for another?" There are two words in the New Testament for "another." One means "another of the same kind" as when Jesus said, "I will send you another Comforter." The word used in Matthew 11:3 is "another of a DIFFERENT kind." John had announced the coming of the King and had promised a time of judgment and purging (Mt 3:7-12); yet Jesus was having a ministry of mercy. John asked, "Are you the Messiah, or do we look for another of a different kind--one who will purge the nation and judge sin?"


Jesus tenderly assures His servant and encourages his faith. If you compare this with Luke 7:18, you will see that John's disciples were giving him reports of Christ's healing ministry. this is why Jesus says to them, "Go and show John again......." (11:4). Jesus was assuring John that He was the King, for He was performing the very miracles that the Old Testament said HE would perform (Isaiah 35:5-6 and 61:1) Jesus says, referring probably to Isaiah 8:14-15; "Don't stumble over me." Christ uses the Word to encourage John, these words are a good lesson for us in times of doubt and discouragement.


THE RECOGNITION (VS 7-15) What a tremendous recognition Christ gives to John in these passages! This is his "well done!" to a good and faithful servant who would give his life for Christ. John was a man not easily swayed; he was a man with convictions. He was not a celebrity, enjoying fame and luxury; he was a servant willing to suffer for Christ. Christ states that John's ministry was the fulfillment of Mal 3:1. Had the nation received Jesus, John would been the Elijah promised by God (verse 14 and Mt 17:10-13). Because they rejected both John and Jesus, the literal and final fulfillment of Mal 3:1-3 will not come until the end times. John was the last of the Old Testament prophets. Because he only ANNOUNCED the kingdom, he was as great as the humblest person IN the kingdom (vs 11).


THE REBUKE (16-19) Christ rebukes the people of that generation for their childishness. Nothing pleased them. John and Jesus were opposite in their lives and ministries, yet neither one could satisfy the childish crowd. There is a difference between childish and childlike. In verses 25-26, Jesus says that only the CHILDLIKE can understand His Word. The world today is like spoiled children who demand entertainment and something new all the time. They refuse to be serious about life or death.


This is the first time we find Jesus uttering words of condemnation. He had done many mighty works, and His disciples had performed miracles, too; yet the cities rejected Him. Capernaum had been especially blessed, since this was Christ's "headquarters" for the early part of His ministry (Mt 8:5-17). It is a serious thing to know the truth and turn from it!!


This was a crucial moment in His ministry. the rebellion against the King has already set in, and will culminate in open rejection. Christ turns to His Father and gives thanks!! What an example for us when we come to times of difficulty. The Father's will should always govern our lives. God bypassed the wise and prudent scribes and Pharisees and chose the simple, believing common people for salvation. (1 Cor. 1) Christ's invitation here is for ALL to come to Him. It is no longer a message limited to the Jews as it was in 10:5-6. Christ now opens the door to all who will come to Him.


"TAKE MY YOKE" The Pharisees had laid many burdens on the people (Mt. 23:4), and their religion was not giving them rest and peace. No religion can give a man peace in his heart. Christ offers a yoke that is easy in contrast to the grinding, binding yokes of the Pharisees. Notice the double use of the word "rest". "I will give you rest" - this is peace with God that comes with salvation. "Ye shall find rest" - this is peace of God that comes with surrender (Phil. 4:6-9) To be yoked to Christ is the greatest blessing possible.


1. Even the greatest men of God get discouraged and have eclipses of faith. John the Baptist was a great servant of God, but he still was a man. Compare the attitude of Paul when he was in prison. (Philippians 1)


2. Our task is to give people the Word of God and NOT to cater to their childish whims. The church that tries to please the people of the world will discover that Matthew 11:16-20 is true: they will not be pleased. To entertain this generation when men need to be warned of hell is a sin.


3. Sodom, with all it's filth, will have an easier time at the judgment than will Capernaum with all it's religion! The very Son of God lived in their midst, yet they rejected Him! Privileges bring responsibilities, and responsibilities always mean accountability. The greater the light, the greater the judgment.


4. God's infinite wisdom is beyond our feeble comprehension or explanation. Romans 11:33-36 The mystery of the blindness of Israel and the calling out of the church should cause us to bow in humble adoration before the wisdom and grace of God.