Matthew 11:19

The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.

Matthew 11:19 (KJV)

Context

In Matthew 11, Jesus speaks to the crowd about John the Baptist and about the way the people have received both John and Himself. The religious leaders rejected John because he came in an ascetic manner, neither eating nor drinking, and they accused him of having a demon. By contrast, Jesus, the Son of man, came eating and drinking, engaging in ordinary social life, and they accused Him of being a glutton and a winebibber, and a friend of publicans and sinners.

Meaning

The title “Son of man” emphasizes Jesus’ humanity and His identification with people in their daily life. Jesus’ eating and drinking refers to His participation in social gatherings and sharing meals with others, including tax collectors and sinners, without rejecting or condemning them. The accusations against Jesus were not based on His actual behavior but were a slanderous distortion of His ministry of fellowship with those considered outcasts.

Jesus concludes with the proverb, “But wisdom is justified of her children.” This means that divine wisdom is vindicated by its results—the righteous lives and deeds of those who respond to it. The “children” of wisdom are those who embrace Jesus’ teachings and follow Him faithfully, acknowledging the wisdom and righteousness behind His actions. This is not a defense of gluttony or drunkenness, but a statement that Jesus’ conduct, though criticized, would be proven right by its fruits.

Biblical connections

The parallel account in Luke 7:34-35 records the same saying, confirming its importance in Jesus’ teaching.

Application

Matthew 11:19 reminds us that Jesus faced criticism for His inclusive and compassionate ministry. However, true wisdom and understanding validate His approach. The verse encourages us to see beyond outward appearances and societal expectations and embrace the wisdom and love that Jesus embodied.

Reflection

Consider how you respond to Jesus’ gracious association with sinners. Are you quick to judge, or do you look for the fruits of wisdom in His work and in the lives of those who follow Him?