Matthew 11:2-11 (John's Question from Prison) - Universal Perspective

John the Baptist, imprisoned by Herod, sends disciples to ask Jesus: "Are you the one?" Jesus responds not with titles but deeds—healing, resurrection, good news to the poor—echoing Isaiah 35 and 61. The answer is unmistakable: yes.

INTERPRETIVE NOTES: The question "ὁ ἐρχόμενος" (the coming one) was loaded messianic language. Jesus' response assumes John will recognize Isaiah's prophecies fulfilled. "Blessed is whoever is not offended" gently challenges John's expectations.

PREACHING ANGLES: Even the greatest prophet needed reassurance, Jesus answers with evidence, not argument, Offense comes when Messiah doesn't match expectations

SHOW DON'T TELL:\n Before: John doubted while in prison and Jesus reassured him

After: Feel the damp stone walls pressing in, chains rattling every time you shift, darkness swallowing hope—then messengers return breathless: 'The blind see! The lame walk! The dead are ALIVE!' And in that moment, light cracks through your doubt

IMAGERY ELEMENTS: prison chains, narrow light shaft, messengers arriving, healing hands, eyes opening

CAUTIONS: Don't dismiss doubt as faithless, Avoid making this about earning kingdom status