4 Then he sent another servant to them; they struck this man on the head and treated him shamefully.
4 And again he sent unto them another servant; and at him they cast stones, and wounded him in the head, and sent him away shamefully handled.
4 Again he sent to them another servant, and they struck him on the head and treated him shamefully.
4 So he sent another servant. That one they tarred and feathered.
4 Again he sent them another servant, and at him they threw stones, wounded him in the head, and sent him away shamefully treated.
4 The owner then sent another servant, but they insulted him and beat him over the head.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Mark 12:4
Commentary on Mark 12:1-12
(Read Mark 12:1-12)
Christ showed in parables, that he would lay aside the Jewish church. It is sad to think what base usage God's faithful ministers have met with in all ages, from those who have enjoyed the privileges of the church, but have not brought forth fruit answerable. God at length sent his Son, his Well-beloved; and it might be expected that he whom their Master loved, they also should respect and love; but instead of honouring him because he was the Son and Heir, they therefore hated him. But the exaltation of Christ was the Lord's doing; and it is his doing to exalt him in our hearts, and to set up his throne there; and if this be done, it cannot but be marvellous in our eyes. The Scriptures, and faithful preachers, and the coming of Christ in the flesh, call on us to render due praise to God in our lives. Let sinners beware of a proud, carnal spirit; if they revile or despise the preachers of Christ, they would have done so their Master, had they lived when he was upon earth.