Here are some questions based on last Sunday’s sermon text (Matthew 11:1-19), in case they’re helpful to you for personal growth or group discussion…

• Even the great John the Baptist struggled with doubts about Jesus. John had certain expectations or assumptions about the Christ that he thought the Scriptures clearly taught. Therefore these expectations carried the weight of divine authority in his mind. John had expected the Christ to come in judgment against those who stood in opposition to the Kingdom of God, to deliver his people from oppression. Yet here he was, suffering imprisonment and violence for his part in the story of the Christ. Has the reality of Jesus and his Kingdom offended or been a stumbling block (v. 6) to you? What kinds of doubts have you had about Jesus? Can you trace your doubts about Jesus back to expectations you’ve had for him that he hasn’t met? Can you examine those expectations in light of what Scripture reveals about who Jesus and what he came to do? Have you wrestled with God about your expectations, confusion, frustrations, and doubts?

• As John faced persecution, imprisonment, suffering, and death, he paved the way for Jesus to face the same things. Jesus knew that path was laid before him, and he walked it willingly and faithfully, actually suffering himself the judgment that his enemies deserved. He also clearly calls his people to follow him in the same way as we faithfully testify to his gracious, forgiving, self-sacrificial love. Are you disappointed that Jesus doesn’t want your life to be easy, comfortable, and free of conflict? What do you think of a Savior who met so much doubt and opposition, who didn’t stand up for himself against his abusers, but who prayed for their forgiveness as he died at their hands? What do you think about spending your life bearing witness to Jesus, meeting largely the same kind of doubt and opposition? Why would that be worthwhile?