King James Version

What Does Matthew 11:2 Mean?

Matthew 11:2 in the King James Version says “Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples, — study this verse from Matthew chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples,

Matthew 11:2 · KJV


Context

1

And it came to pass, when Jesus had made an end of commanding his twelve disciples, he departed thence to teach and to preach in their cities.

2

Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples,

3

And said unto him, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?

4

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


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
John the Baptist, imprisoned by Herod, sends disciples to Jesus: 'Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?' (συ ει ο ερχομενος η ετερον προσδοκωμεν). John's question reveals human doubt amid suffering. The one who proclaimed Jesus as Lamb of God (John 1:29) now questions. 'He that should come' (ο ερχομενος) refers to Messiah. John expected messianic judgment and kingdom establishment; instead he languishes in prison while Jesus teaches and heals. Suffering tests faith. John's honest question isn't unbelief but wrestling with unfulfilled expectations. Jesus welcomes honest questions and provides evidence rather than rebuke.

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Historical & Cultural Context

John imprisoned at Machaerus fortress for denouncing Herod Antipas's unlawful marriage to Herodias (14:3-4). Imprisonment lasted months before execution. Jewish messianic expectations emphasized judgment, liberation, and kingdom establishment. John proclaimed Jesus as judge with winnowing fork (3:12), expecting swift judgment. Instead, Jesus exercised mercy, delayed judgment, and extended grace. This tension—between expected immediate judgment and actual patient mercy—confused many, including John. Early Christians wrestled similarly with delayed second coming.

Reflection Questions

  1. How should we respond when God's actions don't match our expectations?
  2. What does John's doubt despite previous certainty teach about faith amid suffering?
  3. How can we maintain faith when prayers seem unanswered and circumstances deteriorate?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 16 words
1 of 16
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ2 of 16

Now

G1161

but, and, etc

Ἰωάννης3 of 16

when John

G2491

joannes (i.e., jochanan), the name of four israelites

ἀκούσας4 of 16

had heard

G191

to hear (in various senses)

ἐν5 of 16

in

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

τῷ6 of 16
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δεσμωτηρίῳ7 of 16

the prison

G1201

a place of bondage, i.e., a dungeon

τὰ8 of 16
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἔργα9 of 16

the works

G2041

toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act

τοῦ10 of 16
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

Χριστοῦ11 of 16

of Christ

G5547

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

πέμψας12 of 16

he sent

G3992

to dispatch (from the subjective view or point of departure, whereas ???? (as a stronger form of ????) refers rather to the objective point or <i>term

δύο13 of 16

two

G1417

"two"

τῶν14 of 16
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

μαθητῶν15 of 16

disciples

G3101

a learner, i.e., pupil

αὐτοῦ16 of 16
G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 11:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 11:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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