Chapter 8
Questions from Prison
Study John’s question from prison without pretending to know more about his private thoughts than Scripture reveals.
- Matthew 11:2–6
- Luke 7:18–23
John sent a serious question from prison. Jesus answered with evidence from His works, and Scripture does not reveal every reason John asked.
John in Prison
John heard reports about Christ’s works and sent disciples to ask whether Jesus was the coming One. The question surprises readers because John had baptized and testified about Jesus.
Jesus’ Answer
Jesus did not mock John. He directed the messengers to observable works: the blind saw, the lame walked, lepers were cleansed, the deaf heard, the dead were raised, and the poor heard the gospel.
Did John Doubt?
Faithful interpreters have suggested personal struggle, a desire for confirmation, concern for his disciples, or more than one reason. Scripture gives the question but not every private motive.
Honest Questions
A sincere question can seek truth. Families can listen, return to Scripture, examine evidence, avoid invented certainty, pray honestly, and seek wise help.
Fantasticamos Truth Compass
John sent a question; Jesus answered through His works and later praised John.
John may have struggled, sought confirmation, helped his disciples, or acted from several concerns.
John completely abandoned faith or could not possibly have struggled.
Treat serious questions with patience and biblical evidence.
KJV Vocabulary
- Prison
- A place of confinement by authority.
- Works of Christ
- The deeds and ministry Jesus performed.
- Art thou he that should come?
- Are You the promised One?
- Offended
- Caused to stumble or turn away in unbelief.
Ariel’s Investigator Question
Why was Jesus’ evidence-based answer stronger than a bare claim?
Alice’s Look-and-Tell
Match: blind—see, lame—walk, deaf—hear, poor—hear the gospel.
Evidence from Jesus’ Works
Match the report with the evidence Jesus supplied.
Parent Answer Guide
-
The blind receive sight
— A messianic sign
Jesus’ works corresponded with prophetic hope. -
The lame walk
— A messianic sign
Restoration supplied evidence. -
The poor hear the gospel
— Good news reaches the overlooked
Jesus’ ministry included good news to the poor.
Family Discussion
- Why might prison have been difficult?
- Why should we avoid inventing John’s private thoughts?
- How can parents respond to difficult faith questions?
Challenge Extension
Compare Jesus’ answer with Isaiah 35:5–6, Isaiah 61:1, and Luke 4:16–21.
Parent Teaching Note
A wise response can begin: “That is an important question. Let us see what Scripture clearly says, what it does not say, and where we must remain humble.”