King James Version

What Does Matthew 11:6 Mean?

Matthew 11:6 in the King James Version says “And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.”

Matthew 11:6 · KJV

Context

4

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

5

The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.

6

And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.

7

And as they departed, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind?

8

But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings' houses.

Read Matthew 11 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Jesus adds a beatitude: 'blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.' The word 'offended' (σκανδαλισθῇ/skandalisthē) means to stumble, fall away, or be caused to sin—it's the root of our word 'scandal.' Jesus acknowledges He Himself will be a stumbling block to many (1 Peter 2:8). His claim is not that He'll please everyone but that blessing comes to those who aren't driven away by offense. What might cause offense? His humble origins, association with sinners, Pharisaic perception of sabbath violations, refusal to establish political kingdom, the scandal of the cross. Reformed theology recognizes the gospel is inherently offensive to natural man—it humbles pride, demands repentance, excludes all self-righteousness. This verse applies particularly to John's situation: he expected a conquering Messiah, yet found Jesus in a mercy ministry while he languished in prison. The blessing is for those who trust Jesus despite unmet expectations, apparent delays, or confusing circumstances.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This beatitude specifically addressed John the Baptist's struggle but has universal application. John had boldly proclaimed Jesus as 'Lamb of God' (John 1:29) and identified Him as Messiah, yet now faced execution while Jesus's ministry continued without dramatic intervention on his behalf. The apparent contradiction could have caused John to stumble. Jesus's words gently warned against this while affirming John's blessedness if he maintained faith. Later, Jesus would be an offense to many: His hometown rejected Him (Matthew 13:57), disciples left Him over hard teachings (John 6:66), Jewish leaders crucified Him, Greeks considered the cross foolishness (1 Corinthians 1:23). Throughout church history, believers have had to choose: be offended by Christianity's scandal or embrace it. The verse remains relevant wherever the gospel's demands conflict with cultural expectations.

Reflection Questions

  1. What aspects of Jesus or His teachings are you most tempted to be 'offended' by or find difficult to accept?
  2. How do you maintain faith when God's ways contradict your expectations, as John experienced?
  3. What's the difference between legitimate questions about faith (like John's) and the offense that leads to apostasy?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 9 words
καὶ1 of 9

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

μακάριός2 of 9

“blessed”

G3107

supremely blest; by extension, fortunate, well off

ἐστιν3 of 9

“is”

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

ὃς4 of 9

“he whosoever”

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

ἐὰν5 of 9
G1437

a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty

μὴ6 of 9
G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

σκανδαλισθῇ7 of 9

“be offended”

G4624

to entrap, i.e., trip up (figuratively, stumble (transitively) or entice to sin, apostasy or displeasure)

ἐν8 of 9

“in”

G1722

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

ἐμοί9 of 9

“me”

G1698

to me

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 11:6 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 11:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 8:14-151 Corinthians 2:14Matthew 26:31John 6:66Matthew 24:10Romans 9:32-33

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