Luke 7:18-23 – ¹⁸ Then the disciples of John reported to him concerning all these things. ¹⁹ And John, calling two of his disciples to him, sent them to Jesus, saying, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” ²⁰ When the men had come to Him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to You, saying, ‘Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?’ ” ²¹ And that very hour He cured many of infirmities, afflictions, and evil spirits; and to many blind He gave sight. ²² Jesus answered and said to them, “Go and tell John the things you have seen and heard: that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the gospel preached to them. ²³ And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.” (NKJV)

I don’t believe John’s question came primarily from personal doubt. While still in the womb he had recognized the voice of Messiah’s Mother, he had identified Jesus on several occasions and witnessed the presence of the Trinity at Jesus’ baptism, and he had certainly heard reports of all that Jesus was doing in His ministry. He didn’t ask, “are you the Messiah?” but “are you the one who is to come?” It’s a subtle distinction, but it’s essentially “are you the one who is to fulfil all the expectations of God’s people?” The Holy Spirit carefully guided his choice of words, and perhaps that was as much because of all those who would hear the question and answer beyond John himself.

While not a simple one-word response, Jesus’ answer was a clear and definite yes. He didn’t provide any information that was new to John, but by His response He corrected the scope of the question. “I’m doing everything that Messiah was called and promised to do.” Beyond that, Jesus is not providing any certainty, no promises of escape or relief. And it’s not just John; He makes this principle universal in His answer to the disciples prior to His ascension in Acts 1:4-8 – “will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?”, responding “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. But you will receive power … [to do the work you are called to do].” Leave all the rest in the hands of the Father who loves you.