Jesus and John

 

    Jesus gave his 12 disciples instructions on how to go out teaching and preaching.  It was based off of testimony about what Jesus did in their lives (now in our lives).  One of the testimonies was given to John the Baptist when he was in prison.  This testimony also involved John.  

    People never have understood these kind of metaphors.  The holy does not mix well with the unholy.  It leaves a lot of confusion and misunderstanding.  This is why people criticize John and Jesus.  That is why people criticize true Christians.  Blessed are those that are not offended by the good news or Jesus.

    John had made a lot of sacrifices for Jesus.  Now he was facing death.  It was time for him to clear up any doubts he had, so he could die with peace in his soul.  He needed Jesus to confirm that he was who John thought he was.  John was just sitting in prison with only his mind to keep him company.  It is natural to have doubts when you don't understand all the context of your experience.  

    John was now representing baptism through fire (tribulation) which would actually occur after Jesus' ascension into Heaven.  John thought Jesus would free him from prison as prophesized.  When he realized that would not happen, he had doubt/  The prophecy was talking about earthly prison into Heaven, not his literal human prison.  

    It is human to have doubts, but the wisdom comes from doing what you need to do to remove those doubts.  Wisdom is proven through action more than words.  People can know the right words, but have no idea how to carry it out.  If a person sees or hears what Jesus can do, but do not repent, then they will be denounce by God.  

    Jesus publicly answered John's doubts, so he could use it as a teaching moment.  Jesus had shown gratitude for John preparing the way for Jesus.  John represented the modern day (of their time) Elijah as prophesied in Malachi.  John was the best among all people on earth for preparing the way for Jesus.  John was the model in persevering faith.  

    John never did get to see Jesus finish his work, unless he saw it from Heaven.  His life was too short, but it was powerful.  His martyrdom represents the evil of the world trying to control the power of God.  They can't, but they can cause painful road blocks.  John taught us how to push through the roadblocks and be free from restraints of evil.

    There will unfortunately always be those who refuse to believe.  There will be those that will fight the truth.  They will have to face that decision one day.  They will mock you.  They will try to misdirect you.  They will try to take advantage of you.  You just need to pray and keep your focus on Jesus.  The more he reveals to you, the more responsible you are to tell these people and live a holy life. 

    Jesus praised God for revealing things in His timing.  Jesus understood that people can only handle so much at a time.  He also understood that time is short.  He had a lot of work to get accomplished.  He calls out to the weary and burdened to give them rest.  He takes people where they are and teaches them a new way gently and humbly.  He taught by example.  Trusting Jesus is how the soul finds rest.  His way leads to the light that lifts your burdens.

Matthew 11