16 "To what can I compare this generation? They are like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling out to others:
16 But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows,
16 "But to what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling to their playmates,
16 "How can I account for this generation? The people have been like spoiled children whining to their parents,
16 But to what shall I liken this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling to their companions,
16 "To what can I compare this generation? It is like children playing a game in the public square. They complain to their friends,
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Matthew 11:16
Commentary on Matthew 11:16-24
(Read Matthew 11:16-24)
Christ reflects on the scribes and Pharisees, who had a proud conceit of themselves. He likens their behaviour to children's play, who being out of temper without reason, quarrel with all the attempts of their fellows to please them, or to get them to join in the plays for which they used to assemble. The cavils of worldly men are often very trifling and show great malice. Something they have to urge against every one, however excellent and holy. Christ, who was undefiled, and separate from sinners, is here represented as in league with them, and polluted by them. The most unspotted innocence will not always be a defence against reproach. Christ knew that the hearts of the Jews were more bitter and hardened against his miracles and doctrines, than those of Tyre and Sidon would have been; therefore their condemnation would be the greater. The Lord exercises his almighty power, yet he punishes none more than they deserve, and never withholds the knowledge of the truth from those who long after it.