V1-3    The ministry of John Baptist, who is later killed, 14.1-12. There is a period of overlap with his ministry and Christ’s. Apparently, John’s early confidence (John 1.19-36; 3.27-36) has now given way to doubts and questions. We do find that trials and difficulties come into our lives.

            Chapters 11 to 19 provide explanation; why Christ came, and what is expected of those who follow Him.

V4-6    Proof that Jesus is the Messiah. John has not witnessed Jesus’ miracles, since he is working elsewhere. Jesus’ message to his followers is to tell John “what you hear and see.”

            There is blessing on the one who does not fall away, the one who continues to believe, in spite of difficult circumstances.

V7-11 Jesus’ commendation of John;

-          not a  reed shaken by the wind; a man of power and authority;

-          not dressed in fine clothes; a life of austerity;

-          more than a prophet, for John fulfils the prophecies of the forerunner to precede the coming of the Messiah.

Jesus’ hearers, being Jews, would understand the relevance of these words, including the implication that He is the Messiah.

V12-13            See 8.11-12; the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, referring to something new. The law and the prophets precede John; but some who are considered Jews are not really Jews, for the “subjects of the kingdom” are “outside.” Thus, we see that John and Jesus together bring in a dramatic change for the Jewish people.

V14-15            The striking testimony, that John “is the Elijah.” See Mal 4.5-6; a further indication of Jesus’ claim to be the Messiah.

V16-17            The parable of the differences in ministry; John the austere and frugal, living in the desert; Jesus the Messiah, enjoying weddings and feasts. But as God called through His servants, many respond to neither.

V18-19            Not only do the people not repent and believe, but they find ways to condemn both John and Jesus; see 10.24-25. Matthew is clear that both have the wisdom and calling of God.

V20-24            Jesus’ message of repentance, from 4.17. This is His constant call to sinners; sorrow over individual sins, and a deliberate decision to turn from them.

The judgment upon the cities of His day is greater, since it will be “more tolerable” for Tyre and Sidon. There are therefore ‘degrees’ of judgment; of those to whom more light is given, more is demanded.

If mighty works do not bring repentance, they confirm them in unbelief. The key question is, ‘What is your response?’

V25-26            Judgment on the wisdom of the world; the Father reveals His precious truths to “little children.” They are trusting and teachable, and through them God is glorified, 1 Cor 1.27-29.

V27            Judgment on the religion of the world, for true religion centres on the Son, and true understanding comes only from the Father (1 Cor 2.10, 13).

Only when the Son “wills” can anyone come to Him. From John 3, we see that we are born again before we believe, for He enables us to do so. Yet we do not see the Lord as being sparing in His favours; here is the generous God, bringing multitudes into His family.

Matthew insists that the Son of God is God the Son, the perfect revelation of the Father. We can only know the Father through the Son, John 14.1-11.

V28            Invitation, to those who are weary, not worthy; we have rest from our burdens.

V29            Challenge, to be teachable, learning from Him; there is the promise of rest for our souls (Jer 6.16). He is gentle and humble in heart, and we come to a person, not a religion. Here is submission to Him, Deut 22.10; those who are yoked are going the same way. Further, His commandments are not burdensome, and His service is real freedom.

V30            Encouragement, for His yoke is easy, unlike the yoke of the world, whether in religion and law, or sins and pleasure-seeking.

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