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Verse Takeaways
1
The Unpleasable Children
Commentators explain this verse describes petulant children in a marketplace. One group tries to start a joyful game ('piping' for a wedding), but the others won't 'dance.' They then try a somber game ('wailing' for a funeral), but the others won't 'mourn.' This illustrates a stubborn, contrary attitude that refuses to be pleased, no matter what is offered.
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Matthew
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Commentaries
9
Albert Barnes
On Matthew 11:16–19
18th Century
Theologian
But whereunto shall I liken, etc. Christ proceeds to reprove the inconsistency and fickleness of the people of that age. He says they were…
AT Robertson
On Matthew 11:17
Children sitting in the market places (παιδιοις καθημενοις εν ταις αγοραις). This parable of the children playing in the market pl…
Charles Spurgeon
On Matthew 11:16–17
19th Century
Preacher
But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows, and saying, We ha…
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Expositor's Bible Commentary
On Matthew 11:17
“Comparison” stands at the heart of Jesus’ parables (see introductory comment on Mk 4). Here Jesus uses an analogy to show his view of his generati…
John Gill
On Matthew 11:17
17th Century
Pastor
And saying, we have piped unto you, and you have not danced ,
&c.] The allusion is to Jewish children, who having se…
Matthew Henry
On Matthew 11:16–24
17th Century
Minister
Christ reflects on the scribes and Pharisees, who had an arrogant opinion of themselves. He likens their behavior to children's play: children who,…
Thomas Aquinas
On Matthew 11:16–19
13th Century
Philosopher
Here He bursts out in a rebuke of the crowds. And first, He presents a question; second, He presents a kind of metaphor; and third, He explains it.…