Luke 7:20 – “When the men came to Jesus, they said, ‘John the Baptist sent us to you to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”‘”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

John the Baptist’s disciples faithfully deliver his question to Jesus: “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” This is a significant moment because John, who had once declared that Jesus was the Lamb of God (John 1:29), is now seeking confirmation while in prison. His disciples approach Jesus with honesty, presenting John’s question just as it was asked.

This question is not driven by unbelief, but by a desire for clarity. John had preached that the Messiah would bring both salvation and judgment (Luke 3:16-17). Now, he is in a difficult situation—imprisoned and likely confused as to why the Messiah’s mission doesn’t seem to involve the kind of deliverance he expected. John wants reassurance that Jesus is indeed fulfilling God’s plan, even if it looks different from what he thought it would be.

Historical Context

John’s question reflects the common expectations of the Jewish people during that time. Many believed that when the Messiah came, He would establish a powerful earthly kingdom, overthrow Roman rule, and restore Israel’s independence. John likely expected Jesus to bring immediate judgment on evil and deliver the nation from oppression.

However, Jesus’ ministry was focused on healing the sick, preaching forgiveness, and bringing spiritual restoration. His mission was not political but spiritual, aimed at addressing humanity’s deeper need—reconciliation with God. This unexpected approach may have caused John to wonder how Jesus’ ministry fit into the Messianic promises of the Old Testament.

John’s imprisonment by Herod Antipas further heightened his need for clarity. As someone who had been boldly proclaiming the coming of the Messiah, being confined in a prison cell could have caused him to question why God’s plan didn’t seem to be unfolding as he had imagined.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights a critical aspect of faith: it is okay to seek reassurance when we don’t understand what God is doing. Even a man of great faith like John the Baptist had questions, and God does not condemn him for seeking answers. This shows that God is patient and understanding when we come to Him with our doubts.

John’s question also underscores the difference between human expectations and God’s plan. Many expected the Messiah to be a political savior, but Jesus came to be a spiritual Savior, offering salvation through grace. This teaches us that faith involves trusting God’s plan even when it doesn’t align with our expectations. God’s work is often deeper and more far-reaching than what we can see in the moment.

Literary Analysis

Luke presents this verse as part of a larger narrative about who Jesus is and how people respond to Him. By including John’s question, Luke highlights the natural tension between human understanding and divine revelation. The fact that John’s disciples faithfully deliver the question shows their honesty and devotion, and it sets the stage for Jesus’ response, which will affirm His identity.

The phrase “the one who is to come” is a Messianic title drawn from Old Testament prophecies, including those in Psalms and Isaiah. It points to the long-awaited deliverer who would establish God’s kingdom. By using this phrase, John’s question acknowledges Jesus’ connection to the Messianic hope but seeks clarity on whether Jesus is fulfilling that role.

Biblical Cross-References

• John 1:29 – John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
• Isaiah 61:1 – A prophecy about the Messiah bringing good news to the poor and healing the brokenhearted, which Jesus fulfills.
• Luke 3:16-17 – John the Baptist’s message about the Messiah, who would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire and bring judgment.
• Habakkuk 2:3 – A reminder that God’s promises will be fulfilled in their appointed time, even if they seem delayed.
• Matthew 28:17 – Even after Jesus’ resurrection, some disciples doubted, showing that doubt and faith can coexist.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse encourages Christians to be honest with God when they face questions or doubts. John’s example shows that even the most faithful believers can have moments when they need reassurance. Instead of hiding our doubts, we should bring them to Jesus through prayer, Scripture, and fellowship with other believers.

It also reminds us to trust God’s plan, even when it doesn’t match our expectations. We may, like John, wonder why God hasn’t answered a prayer in the way we hoped or why He is allowing certain difficulties in our lives. But this verse calls us to remember that God’s timing and purposes are perfect, even when we don’t fully understand them.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is shown in how He responds to John’s question—not with anger or disappointment, but with compassion and affirmation. Jesus doesn’t rebuke John for asking the question. Instead, He provides evidence of His identity by pointing to the miracles He is performing and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies (Luke 7:22). This demonstrates that God is patient and willing to reassure us when we seek Him sincerely.

God’s love is also evident in the fact that He doesn’t always give us what we expect—He gives us what we need. John expected the Messiah to bring judgment and political deliverance, but God’s plan was to bring spiritual salvation. This shows that God’s love is far deeper and greater than what we can imagine.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse directly relates to Jesus’ identity as the Messiah. By asking if Jesus is “the one who is to come,” John is pointing to the Messianic promises of the Old Testament. Jesus’ response (in the following verses) confirms that He is fulfilling those promises, though not in the way many expected.

Jesus’ miracles of healing, raising the dead, and preaching the good news to the poor are clear signs that He is the fulfillment of prophecies like Isaiah 61:1-2. His mission goes beyond earthly deliverance—He came to bring eternal salvation. This connection between Jesus’ actions and Old Testament prophecy confirms His role as the Savior of the world.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have you ever experienced a time when you questioned God’s plan or timing? How did you seek answers?
2. What expectations do you have of God that may be limiting your ability to fully trust Him?
3. How does John’s example encourage you to be honest with God about your doubts and questions?
4. How can you remind yourself of God’s faithfulness when His plan doesn’t match your expectations?
5. How does understanding Jesus’ role as a spiritual Savior rather than a political one change the way you view His work in your life today?

Luke 7:20 reminds us that God welcomes our questions and provides the reassurance we need when we seek Him. Like John, we can bring our doubts to Jesus, trusting that He is faithful to reveal His truth and guide us through life’s uncertainties.