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and say, `We played the flute for you, and you didn`t dance. We mourned for you, and you didn`t lament.`
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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9
18th Century
Presbyterian
But whereunto shall I liken, etc. Christ proceeds to reprove the inconsistency and fickleness of the people of that age. He says they were…
Children sitting in the market places (παιδιοις καθημενοις εν ταις αγοραις). This parable of the children playing in the market pl…
19th Century
Baptist
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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“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…
17th Century
Reformed Baptist
And saying, we have piped unto you, and you have not danced , &c.] The allusion is to Jewish children, who having se…
Christ reflects on the scribes and Pharisees, who had an arrogant opinion of themselves. He likens their behavior to children's play: children who,…
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13th Century
Catholic
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.…
