Luke 7:20
When the men were come unto him, they said, John Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?
Luke 7:20 · King James Version
Meaning
When the men came to Jesus, they asked him if he was the one they were waiting for, the one who was foretold to come by John the Baptist. This question reflects the uncertainty and anticipation surrounding the arrival of the Messiah. The people were eagerly expecting the promised savior to deliver them from their troubles and establish God's kingdom on earth. By posing this question, they were seeking confirmation of Jesus' identity and mission. This moment captures the profound theological significance of Jesus' role as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the hope of salvation for humanity. Jesus' response to this question would reveal his true nature and purpose, providing clarity to those who were seeking the truth. This inquiry also serves as a reminder of the importance of discerning the presence of God in our lives and recognizing the signs of his coming.
Theological Overview
Within this passage, theological interpretations suggest that the question posed by John the Baptist reflects a moment of doubt or confusion. It brings to light the expectation of the people regarding the Messiah and their understanding of Jesus' identity. The phrase "he that should come" is often associated with Messianic prophecies in the Old Testament, indicating the anticipation of a savior. By questioning whether Jesus is the awaited Messiah, John's disciples seek confirmation of his identity and purpose. The response given by Jesus serves as a confirmation of his messianic role, as he points to his actions and miracles as evidence of fulfilling the prophecies. In this context, word studies on phrases such as "should come" and "look we for another" offer insights into the deep theological implications of this encounter and its significance in affirming Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah.
Luke 7:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
And when the men were come unto him, they said, John the Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he that cometh, or look we for another?
World English Bible
When the men had come to him, they said, “John the Baptizer has sent us to you, saying, ‘Are you he who comes, or should we look for another?’”
Douay-Rheims
And when the men were come unto him, they said: John the Baptist hath sent us to thee, saying: Art thou he that art to come? Or look we for another?
Geneva Bible (1599)
And when the men were come vnto him, they said, Iohn Baptist hath sent vs vnto thee, saying, Art thou hee that should come, or shall we waite for another?