Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see:

MATTHEW 11:4KJV
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Matthew 11:4 (KJV)

What does Matthew 11:4 mean?

Matthew 11:4 shows Jesus telling John the Baptist’s followers to go back and report to John what they have heard and seen happening. Jesus points them to the real, observable evidence of his actions instead of giving a direct answer about his identity.

In this scene, John the Baptist is in prison and has sent his disciples to ask Jesus if he is the one they were expecting. Jesus responds by instructing them to share what they have witnessed—miracles and teachings—rather than simply stating who he is. This approach encourages John (and the readers) to consider the meaning of Jesus’ works as a sign of who he is.

The Greek behind Matthew 11:4

  • The word "answered" (ἀποκριθεὶς, apokritheis) often suggests a thoughtful or purposeful reply, not just a casual response. Here, it highlights that Jesus is responding carefully to John’s question.
  • The word "shew" (ἀπαγγείλατε, apangeilate) means to report or announce, carrying the sense of giving a full account. Jesus is asking for a faithful report of what his actions demonstrate.
  • The word "again" (ἀπαγγείλατε, apangeilate) is the same as "shew" in Greek here, which can mean "report back" or "bring news again," emphasizing the act of returning with information.

Why Matthew 11:4 matters

  • Matthew 11:4 clarifies that Jesus wants people to judge his identity based on the evidence of his deeds, not just on claims or titles.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage by showing Jesus’ fulfillment of messianic expectations through actions, inviting reflection rather than demanding blind belief.
  • It helps clear up the misunderstanding that faith in Jesus is meant to be blind; instead, Jesus points to real-world evidence that can be seen and heard.

Where else these words appear

“shew” Greek G518 · used in 44 verses

  • Matthew 2:8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
  • Luke 8:34 When they that fed them saw what was done, they fled, and went and told it in the city and in the country.
  • Acts 12:14 And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate.

“see” Greek G991 · used in 119 verses

  • Matthew 5:28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
  • Luke 10:24 For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.
  • 1 Corinthians 8:9 But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.

“John” Greek G2491 · used in 130 verses

  • Matthew 3:1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea,
  • Mark 9:38 And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us.
  • John 1:32 And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him.

“Go” Greek G4198 · used in 147 verses

  • Matthew 2:8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
  • Luke 9:53 And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem.
  • Acts 8:26 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.