Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 22:41

"Now while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them a question," — Matthew 22:41 (ASV)

While the Pharisees, etc. Jesus, having refuted the great sects of the Jews, then proceeds to pose a question for them to answer. This was done not for the purpose of empty display and triumph, but:

1. To show them how ignorant they were of their prophecies.
2. To humble them in light of their ignorance.
3. To bring to their attention the true doctrine concerning the Messiah—his possessing a character superior to that of David, the mightiest king of Israel—being David's Lord while at the same time he was David's descendant.