1. During the Lord's ministry many people asked him a variety of questions. 2. On this occasion John asked Jesus a question, and Jesus answered it. 3. In our lesson we are examining: a. John's question (vs.2-3) b. the Lord's answer (vs.4-6). 4. We are especially interested in the Lord's answer because it reveals information that will help us.
Discussion:
I. (vs.2-3) JOHN ASKED JESUS A QUESTION
A. According to vs.2, John was in prison at the time. 1. We learn from Matthew 14:3-4 why John was in prison. 2. In prison John heard about "the works of Christ." 3. Since John was in prison he sent two of his disciples to ask Jesus his question. B. John's question is recorded in vs.3. 1. We must not conclude from John's question that he did not know who Jesus was. 2. John's statements found in John 1:29-34 indicate that he was certain about the Lord's identity. C. It seems that John's situation caused him to question whether Jesus was the Messiah. D. We need to take heed because difficult situations can cause us to have doubts.
II. (vs.4-6) JESUS ANSWERED JOHN'S QUESTION
A. (vs.4) Jesus first instructed John's disciples to return and tell John about the things they saw and heard [at this point we need to tie in the information presented in Luke 7:21]. B. (vs.5) Jesus listed the works He was doing. 1. He gave sight to the blind (Matthew 9:27-31). 2. He made the lame to walk (John 5:5-9). 3. He cleansed lepers (Matthew 8:1-3). 4. He caused the deaf to hear (Mark 7:31-37). 5. He raised the dead (Luke 7:11-18). 6. He preached the Gospel to the poor (Luke 4:43-44; Mark 12:37b). C. (vs.6) Jesus concluded His answer by stating that those who are faithful to Him will be blessed.
III. APPLICATION
A. John's question shows how difficult situations can: 1. create doubts about the Lord 2. lead to a fall. B. We must remember that help is available from the Lord (Matthew 11:28-30). C. Note especially that Jesus said, "learn of me" (vs.29). D. "Learning of Jesus" includes reading about the great works that He did. E. Notice the impact that the Lord's works had upon those who actually saw them (Matthew 15:30-31). F. Reading and meditating upon the Lord's works will strengthen our faith in Him (John 20:30-31).
Conclusion:
1. A practical lesson to learn from the verses we have studied is that the Lord gives answers to our questions in His Word. 2. Thankfully, He answers questions that relate to salvation (Mark 16:15-16).
