Advent 3 with Matthew

15 December Matt. 11:2-11
Doubt. What did John expect of Jesus? Was he becoming disappointed, (v3). Was his mood influenced by his unhappy circumstances, locked up in Herod's dungeon with nothing much to do except brood over the way things were turning out?

Or, conversely, was it only when John stopped his busy work and had time to reflect upon the amazing things being said and done by Jesus that the possibility arose in his mind that this could indeed be the one they had waited for? Was it, 'the beginning of faith, not of doubt' (B.T.D. Smith)?

Possible preaching points.

• Time in prison is not to be recommended, but time set aside to think and pray can be. How much time do we give to study, reflection, prayer, looking at new, challenging ideas?
• There have been times when I have felt on the mountain top in glorious sunshine, secure in faith and close to God. I have wished to stay in that sunny spot of certainty. But, it seems that a nudge has prodded me on into the dark valley. It is there, in the shadow of doubt and difficulty that I have discovered that I have more to learn, (much more). John's faith was confirmed whilst he was laid aside in a difficult place, and full of questions.
• What are the plus points of health doubt?
• How can it help us to grow? (See the hymn 'God of my faith I offer you my doubt' in 'Singing the Faith' no. 629)