Luke 7:19
And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?
Luke 7:19 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, John the Baptist sends two of his disciples to ask Jesus if he is truly the Messiah they have been waiting for, or if they should expect someone else. This question reveals the uncertainty and confusion that even a close follower of Jesus like John the Baptist had about his identity. Although John had baptized Jesus and recognized him as the Lamb of God, he still had doubts and wanted reassurance. It is a reminder that faith is not always a straightforward journey, and even the most faithful may have moments of questioning and seeking clarity. Jesus responds to John's disciples by pointing to his miracles and teachings as evidence of his identity as the Messiah. This exchange emphasizes the importance of seeking the truth and verifying it for oneself, even when it comes to matters of faith.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the Gospel of Luke, we see John the Baptist questioning whether Jesus is truly the awaited Messiah. The phrase "he that should come" is a Messianic title referring to the promised deliverer of the Jewish people. John, despite baptizing Jesus and receiving a divine revelation of Jesus' identity (John 1:29-34), seems to be facing doubt and uncertainty. Some scholars suggest that John's question may have stemmed from his expectations of a more overtly political and triumphant Messiah, rather than the humble and servant-like figure that Jesus appeared to be. This verse highlights the complexities of human understanding and expectations in relation to divine revelation, as well as the importance of faith and trust in God's plan. By sending his disciples to Jesus for confirmation, John exemplifies the importance of seeking and verifying the truth, even when faced with doubts. Through this interaction, Jesus affirms his Messianic identity through his actions and teachings, inviting John and his disciples to deepen their faith and understanding.
Luke 7:19 in other translations
American Standard Version
And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to the Lord, saying, Art thou he that cometh, or look we for another?
World English Bible
John, calling to himself two of his disciples, sent them to Jesus, saying, “Are you the one who is coming, or should we look for another?”
Douay-Rheims
And John called to him two of his disciples and sent them to Jesus, saying: Art thou he that art to come? Or look we for another?
Geneva Bible (1599)
So Iohn called vnto him two certaine men of his disciples, and sent them to Iesus, saying, Art thou hee that should come, or shall we waite for another?