Matthew 21:16

And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?

Matthew 21:16 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of the account of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. After entering the city, Jesus went to the temple, where He found people buying and selling, overturning the tables of the moneychangers and driving out those who were making the temple a marketplace. The children in the temple were shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” This verse contains Jesus’ response to the Pharisees’ displeasure with the children’s praise.

Meaning

The verse begins with Jesus acknowledging the praise given to Him by the children. Praise is an important aspect of worship, and in this case, the children’s praise was directed towards Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of David. Praise acknowledges God’s greatness, power, and works, and it is an expression of love, adoration, and gratitude towards Him.

Jesus quotes a portion of Psalm 8:2, which says, “Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants, You have ordained strength because of Your enemies, that You may silence the enemy and the avenger” (NKJV). By quoting this verse, Jesus emphasizes that God finds delight in the praise of children. Their innocent and sincere praise has a special significance to Him.

Jesus’ response to the Pharisees indicates that God values genuine and heartfelt praise, regardless of the source. Children are often considered naive or inexperienced, yet their simple and pure expressions of praise carry weight in the eyes of God. It highlights the humility and openness required to receive God’s kingdom.

Biblical connections

The quotation from Psalm 8:2 is central to this passage. In its original context, the psalm celebrates the strength that God ordains from the mouths of infants and children, silencing the enemy and the avenger. Jesus applies this to the children’s acclamation, showing that their praise is not merely acceptable but divinely ordained. The children’s cry, “Hosanna to the Son of David,” echoes the messianic expectations of the Old Testament, and Jesus’ defense of their praise affirms His identity as the promised King.

Application

This verse encourages believers to cultivate a spirit of praise and worship in their lives. We are reminded of the importance of praising God genuinely, without reservation or concern for the opinions of others. Our praise should flow from a heart that acknowledges Jesus as Lord and Savior, expressing adoration and thanksgiving for His work in our lives. Furthermore, we should approach God with childlike faith, embracing His teachings and relying on Him completely.

• Matthew 21:16 teaches us the significance of praise and the value that God places on sincere expressions of worship, particularly from the mouths of children. It challenges us to cultivate a spirit of genuine praise and childlike faith in our relationship with God.

Reflection

The Pharisees’ reaction to the children’s praise reveals their hardened hearts and their inability to recognize Jesus as the Messiah. In contrast, the children’s spontaneous praise signifies their receptivity to Jesus and their willingness to accept Him with childlike faith. It serves as a reminder to us that true faith requires humility, trust, and a willingness to approach God with childlike sincerity and dependence.