John had been thrown into prison by Herod Antipas, because he criticised Judah's puppet king for marrying his brother's wife. Some twinge of fear had kept Herod from killing the prophet, and his disciples managed to get word to him about what was going on. Obviously, news about Jesus figured prominently in their reports.
But doubts were nagging at the Baptist in his cell. What was bothering him? Was it that Jesus seemed less keen on judging people, and more interested in welcoming them to the party? John had taught his disciples to fast, he'd set them a stern example. But here was Jesus eating and drinking, and welcoming prominent sinners into his circle.
John was wondering to himself, was I wrong? When I baptised that man, and heard the voice from heaven, was I mistaken? Have I sent people after the wrong man? Have I sent them to disaster?
So he tells his faithful friends to get a message to Jesus. Ask whether he is the One, of should we expect another?
What did Jesus think when he heard this message? Was he disappointed that John the Baptist was losing faith in him? Did he feel sorry for him, thinking perhaps that his long imprisonment was getting to his mind?
And what to say by way of reply? What could he do to encourage his herald and forerunner?
What John needed was to know that God was at work, So Jesus doesn't reply at first, but turns his attention back to the crowd of sick people who were his constant companions. He healed another batch of wretches of their ailments. sent them on their way rejoicing and then turned to John's messengers. Go and tell John what you just saw - God is working here. Miracles are being done, ancient wrongs are being put right. Good news is being preached.
Hang in there, faithful prophet, God has a blessing for all who aren't put off by me.
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