Matthew 11:3 (KJV)

What does Matthew 11:3 mean?

Matthew 11:3 records a question sent to Jesus asking if he is truly the expected Messiah, or if people should keep waiting for someone else. The verse shows a moment of doubt or uncertainty about Jesus’ identity and mission.

John the Baptist, who is in prison, sends his followers to Jesus with this question. The question, “Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?” reflects the hope and expectation many Jews had for a promised deliverer, but also the confusion about whether Jesus fits that role, especially since John himself is suffering.

The Greek behind Matthew 11:3

• ἔρχομαι (erchomai, “come”): This word is often used for someone who is expected or promised, especially in a prophetic sense. Here, it points to the awaited Messiah, the one “who should come.”
• προσδοκάω (prosdokaō, “look”): This word means to wait for or expect. It highlights the sense of anticipation and longing among the people for God’s promised one.
• ἕτερος (heteros, “another”): This word means “another of a different kind.” The question is not just about waiting for someone else, but possibly someone very different from Jesus.

Why Matthew 11:3 matters

• Matthew 11:3 helps readers see that even important figures like John the Baptist could have questions or doubts about Jesus’ identity, especially when circumstances are difficult.
• The verse highlights the widespread expectation of a Messiah and shows that Jesus’ actions and style did not always match what people imagined.
• This question sets up Jesus’ response in the following verses, where he points to his works as evidence of who he is, inviting people to judge by what they see and hear.