Matthew 11:10

Matthew 11:10 Meaning and Explanation

For this is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.

King James Version (KJV)

Read this verse in context with translation switching:

Read Full Chapter →

Jesus identifies John as the messenger foretold by the prophets, sent ahead to prepare the Lord's way.

What Does Matthew 11:10 Mean?

Jesus grounds John's greatness in Scripture, quoting the prophet Malachi: "Behold, I send my messenger before thy face." The promised messenger would go ahead of the Lord Himself to ready His path. By applying this to John, Jesus reveals that John's whole ministry was written into God's plan long before.

Notice the weight of the words: the messenger prepares the way before "thee" -- before the Lord. John's task was to clear the road for Christ, and that very role marks Jesus as the One whose coming the prophets awaited. A prepared way is a heart made ready to receive Him. John's calling becomes everyone's calling in miniature: to make room, to level the path, so that the Lord may come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 11:10

What does Matthew 11:10 mean?

Jesus identifies John as the messenger foretold by the prophets, sent ahead to prepare the Lord's way.

Keep Studying Matthew 11

Read the whole chapter in KJV, ASV, or WEB, or go deeper with the chapter study guide and key themes.