Matthew 11:7

KJV

¶ And as they departed, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind?

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} as {G5130} they departed {G4198}, Jesus {G2424} began {G756} to say {G3004} unto the multitudes {G3793} concerning {G4012} John {G2491}, What {G5101} went ye {G1831} out into {G1519} the wilderness {G2048} to see {G2300}? A reed {G2563} shaken {G4531} with {G5259} the wind {G417}?

Complete Jewish Bible

As they were leaving, Yeshua began speaking about Yochanan to the crowds: "What did you go out to the desert to see? Reeds swaying in the breeze?

Berean Standard Bible

As John’s disciples were leaving, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swaying in the wind?

American Standard Version

And as these went their way, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness to behold? a reed shaken with the wind?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Following the departure of John the Baptist's disciples, who had sought clarity on Jesus' identity, Jesus turns to the surrounding crowds to address their perceptions of John. This verse marks a crucial pivot in Jesus' discourse, as He shifts from affirming His own messianic role to defending and characterizing John's ministry. Jesus challenges the multitudes to reflect on their original motivations for venturing into the Judean wilderness, prompting them to consider whether they had sought a fickle, easily swayed figure or a true, unyielding prophet of God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows a significant exchange between Jesus and the disciples of John the Baptist. John, imprisoned and perhaps experiencing a moment of doubt, sent his disciples to ask Jesus, "Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?" Jesus responded not with a direct "yes," but by pointing to His miraculous works and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, concluding with a beatitude for those not offended by Him ([Matthew 11:2-6](/matthew/11-2-6 "Matthew 11:2-6 - John's Question and Jesus' Answer")). As John's messengers depart, Jesus seizes the opportunity to address the crowd's understanding of John, effectively preempting any misinterpretation of John's query as a sign of weakness or inconsistency. He redirects their gaze from His own identity to the profound and unwavering character of the prophet who prepared His way.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** John the Baptist's ministry took place in the Judean wilderness, a rugged, desolate region east of Jerusalem and west of the Dead Sea. This was not a place for casual sightseeing; people traveled considerable distances to hear John's message of repentance and to be baptized in the Jordan River ([Matthew 3:1-6](/matthew/3-1-6 "Matthew 3:1-6 - John the Baptist's Ministry")). The "reed" (kálamos) was a common plant found in marshy areas, particularly along riverbanks like the Jordan. It was known for its flexibility and susceptibility to being easily swayed by the wind, making it a fitting metaphor for instability or lack of conviction. Jesus' question would resonate deeply with His audience, who were intimately familiar with the landscape and the common imagery associated with it.
* **Key Themes:** Jesus' rhetorical question in this verse contributes significantly to several key themes within Matthew's Gospel. Firstly, it underscores the **authenticity and steadfastness of John the Baptist's prophetic ministry**. John was not a man swayed by public opinion or personal comfort, but a bold messenger of God who confronted sin directly, even that of Herod Antipas ([Matthew 14:3-4](/matthew/14-3-4 "Matthew 14:3-4 - John's Imprisonment for Rebuke of Herod")). Secondly, it highlights the **discernment required to recognize true spiritual authority**. Jesus challenges the crowd to examine their own motivations and expectations when seeking spiritual leaders. Were they looking for someone agreeable and pliable, or a prophet who spoke God's unvarnished truth, even if it was uncomfortable ([Matthew 3:7-10](/matthew/3-7-10 "Matthew 3:7-10 - John's Denunciation of the Pharisees and Sadducees"))? This theme invites introspection into the nature of genuine faith and discipleship.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Jesus (Greek, _Iēsoûs'_):** The name of our Lord, derived from the Hebrew "Jehoshua," meaning "the Lord is salvation." Here, it signifies the divine authority and identity of the speaker, who is about to offer a profound assessment of John the Baptist.
* **wilderness (Greek, _érēmos'_):** Referring to a lonesome, waste, or desolate place. This word grounds the setting of John's ministry, emphasizing its austere and unconventional nature, far removed from the comforts and conventions of urban life. It highlights the deliberate choice of those who sought John out, venturing into a harsh environment for spiritual encounter.
* **reed (Greek, _kálamos'_):** A plant or its stem, often used metaphorically for something fragile, easily bent, or lacking substance. In this context, Jesus uses it to represent someone weak, unstable, or easily swayed by external pressures, directly contrasting it with John's known character.
* **shaken (Greek, _saleúō'_):** To waver, agitate, rock, or topple; figuratively, to disturb or incite. This verb vividly describes the action of the wind upon the reed, reinforcing the image of instability and lack of firmness. By asking if they went to see a reed *shaken*, Jesus implies the opposite about John: he was unshakable.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ And as they departed,"**: This phrase marks a crucial transition point in the narrative. John's disciples, having received Jesus' indirect but powerful answer, are now leaving. This departure creates the opportune moment for Jesus to address the broader crowd, shifting the focus from His own identity to the character and significance of John.
* **"Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John,"**: Jesus intentionally turns His attention to the large crowd that had gathered, indicating a public discourse. His topic is John, suggesting that John's question, or perhaps the crowd's perception of John, needed clarification or defense. This sets the stage for Jesus' powerful affirmation of John's ministry.
* **"‹What went ye out into the wilderness to see?"**: This is the first part of Jesus' profound rhetorical question. He challenges the crowd to recall their original motivation for making the arduous journey to the wilderness. The wilderness was not a tourist destination; people went there with a specific purpose, implying a deep spiritual hunger or expectation. This question forces self-reflection on their part.
* **"A reed shaken with the wind?›"**: This is the culmination of the rhetorical question, presenting a vivid and easily understood metaphor. A reed, common along the Jordan, is flimsy and bends with every gust of wind. By asking if they went to see such a thing, Jesus implicitly asserts that John was the antithesis of this image—he was not weak, indecisive, or easily swayed by popular opinion or adverse circumstances. He was firm, unyielding, and steadfast in his message.

#### Literary Devices
Jesus employs a powerful **Rhetorical Question** in this verse: "What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind?" This question is not posed to elicit an answer, but to provoke thought and emphasize a point. The implied answer is a resounding "No!" The question forces the audience to confront their own expectations and to recognize the true, unwavering character of John. Furthermore, the phrase "a reed shaken with the wind" functions as a potent **Metaphor**. The reed, a common plant in the region, is used to symbolize instability, weakness, and a lack of conviction. By contrasting this image with John's known steadfastness, Jesus highlights John's unyielding nature and prophetic authority. This use of **Imagery** draws upon the audience's familiarity with their environment, making the comparison immediately understandable and impactful.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 11:7 serves as a powerful affirmation of John the Baptist's integrity and prophetic calling, directly challenging any notion that his imprisonment or doubt might signify weakness or wavering. Jesus' rhetorical question highlights the essential quality of steadfastness in spiritual leadership and discipleship. John was not a man who bent to the prevailing winds of popular opinion or personal comfort; he was a firm, unyielding voice for truth, even when it led to persecution. This passage calls believers to a similar unwavering commitment to God's truth, reminding us that authentic faith is characterized by stability and conviction, rather than being easily swayed by the shifting currents of culture or personal convenience. It underscores the importance of seeking out and valuing spiritual leaders who embody such steadfastness, rather than those who merely cater to popular sentiment.

* [James 1:6](/james/1-6 "James 1:6 - The Wavering Mind"): "But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed."
* [Ephesians 4:14](/ephesians/4-14 "Ephesians 4:14 - No Longer Children, Tossed by Waves"): "That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;"
* [Luke 7:24-26](/luke/7-24-26 "Luke 7:24-26 - Jesus' Praise of John"): "And when the messengers of John were departed, he began to speak unto the people concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness for to see? A reed shaken with the wind? But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously apparelled, and live delicately, are in kings' courts. But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 11:7 presents a profound challenge for contemporary believers, urging us to examine the nature of our own faith and the spiritual influences we embrace. Are we "reeds shaken with the wind," easily swayed by cultural trends, popular opinions, or the latest theological fads? Or do we, like John the Baptist, stand firm on the unshakeable truth of God's Word, even when it demands unpopular stances or personal sacrifice? This verse calls us to cultivate a deep, rooted conviction that is not easily disturbed by life's storms or external pressures. It also prompts us to discern carefully the voices we listen to; do we seek out those who will tell us what we want to hear, or those who, like John, speak God's truth with unwavering courage, calling us to genuine repentance and transformation? Our steadfastness, or lack thereof, reveals the depth of our commitment to Christ and His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or faith do you find yourself most susceptible to being "shaken with the wind" (i.e., easily swayed by external pressures or opinions)?**
* **How can you cultivate a deeper, more rooted conviction in your faith that allows you to stand firm amidst life's challenges and cultural shifts?**
* **What qualities do you prioritize in spiritual leaders or teachers, and how does John the Baptist's character, as praised by Jesus, challenge or affirm those priorities?**

### FAQ

**Why did Jesus ask this question about a "reed shaken with the wind"?**

Answer: Jesus used this rhetorical question to highlight John the Baptist's unwavering character and prophetic integrity. A reed is flimsy and easily swayed by the wind, symbolizing instability or weakness. By asking if they went to see such a person, Jesus was emphatically stating that John was the opposite: he was firm, resolute, and uncompromised in his message and mission, despite facing imprisonment and even doubt. It was a way for Jesus to affirm John's divine calling and challenge the crowd's perception of him, ensuring they understood he was a true prophet, not a fickle opportunist.

**What is the significance of the "wilderness" in this verse?**

Answer: The "wilderness" (Greek: _érēmos_) was the desolate region where John the Baptist conducted his ministry. Its significance lies in its contrast to the populated, comfortable areas. People had to make a deliberate, often arduous, journey to hear John. This setting underscores the seriousness of their initial quest and the powerful draw of John's message. Jesus' question, "What went ye out into the wilderness to see?", reminds them that they sought something profound and authentic, not something common or easily found in the cities. It emphasizes the spiritual hunger that drove them to John's austere ministry.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Matthew 11:7 directly praises John the Baptist's steadfastness, it also implicitly points to the ultimate unshakeable figure: Jesus Christ Himself. John, though a great prophet, was merely the forerunner, the voice crying in the wilderness to prepare the way for the Lord ([Isaiah 40:3](/isaiah/40-3 "Isaiah 40:3 - Isaiah's Prophecy of John the Baptist")). Jesus, unlike any reed, is the immovable cornerstone, the rock upon which the church is built, against which the gates of hell cannot prevail ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Peter's Confession and the Church's Foundation")). He is the one who, though tempted in every way, remained without sin and never wavered from His Father's will ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our High Priest")). The steadfastness Jesus commends in John finds its perfect and eternal embodiment in Christ, who is "the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever" ([Hebrews 13:8](/hebrebs/13-8 "Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ, Unchanging")). He is the ultimate reality to which John's unwavering ministry pointed, establishing an unshakable kingdom that cannot be moved ([Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - An Unshakable Kingdom")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

James 1:6

But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

John 5:35

He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light.

Genesis 49:4

Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel; because thou wentest up to thy father's bed; then defiledst thou [it]: he went up to my couch.

Luke 7:24

And when the messengers of John were departed, he began to speak unto the people concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness for to see? A reed shaken with the wind?

Luke 7:30

But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.

Mark 1:3

The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

Mark 1:5

And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins.