Matthew Henry Commentary Matthew 11:7-15

"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? But what went ye out to see? a man clothed in soft [raiment]? Behold, they that wear soft [raiment] are in king`s houses. But wherefore went ye out? to see a prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet. This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, Who shall prepare thy way before thee. Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not arisen a greater than John the Baptist: yet he that is but little in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and men of violence take it by force. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. And if ye are willing to receive [it,] this is Elijah, that is to come. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." — Matthew 11:7-15 (ASV)

What Christ said concerning John was not only for his praise but for the people's profit. Those who attend to the word will be called to give an account of their spiritual growth. Do we think that when the sermon is done, our responsibility is over? No, for then the greatest part of our responsibility begins. John was a self-denying man, dead to all the pomps of the world and the pleasures of sense.

It is fitting for people, in all their conduct, to be consistent with their character and their situation. John was a great and good man, yet not perfect; therefore, he fell short of glorified saints. The least in heaven knows more, loves more, and does more in praising God, and receives more from him, than the greatest in this world. But "the kingdom of heaven" here should rather be understood as the kingdom of grace, the gospel dispensation in its power and purity.

What reason we have to be thankful that our lot is cast in the days of the kingdom of heaven, under such advantages of light and love! Multitudes were powerfully affected by the ministry of John and became his disciples. And those people strove for a place in this kingdom whom one might think had no right or title to it, and so they seemed to be intruders. This shows us what fervency and zeal are required of all.

Self must be denied; the inclination, the very makeup, and the disposition of the mind must be altered. Those who are determined to have a share in the great salvation will accept it on any terms, not considering them difficult, nor will they relinquish their hold without a blessing. The things of God are of great and universal concern. God requires no more from us than the right use of the faculties he has given us.

People are ignorant because they are unwilling to learn.