King James Version

What Does Matthew 21:16 Mean?

Matthew 21:16 in the King James Version says “And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of ... — study this verse from Matthew chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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 · King James Version


Context

14

And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple; and he healed them.

15

And when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David; they were sore displeased,

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?

17

And he left them, and went out of the city into Bethany; and he lodged there.

18

Now in the morning as he returned into the city, he hungered.


Commentaries3 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
This text illustrates key Reformed principles: sola Scriptura, sola gratia, and sola fide. The passage demonstrates how God's Word speaks authoritatively to human need, revealing both our depravity and God's merciful provision through Christ.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

This verse originates in Jesus' ministry during a pivotal period. The first-century Jewish context included Roman occupation, Pharisaic religious authority, and messianic expectations. Understanding these factors illuminates the passage's significance.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse deepen your appreciation for Christ?
  2. What false beliefs or practices does this text correct?
  3. How should you share this truth with others?

Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.


Original Language Analysis

Greek · 23 words
καὶ1 of 23

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

εἶπον2 of 23

said

G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

αὐτοῖς3 of 23

unto him

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

Ἀκούεις4 of 23

Hearest thou

G191

to hear (in various senses)

τί5 of 23

what

G5101

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

οὗτοι6 of 23

these

G3778

the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)

λέγει7 of 23

saith

G3004

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

8 of 23
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ9 of 23

And

G1161

but, and, etc

Ἰησοῦς10 of 23

Jesus

G2424

jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites

λέγει11 of 23

saith

G3004

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

αὐτοῖς12 of 23

unto him

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

Ναί13 of 23

Yea

G3483

yes

οὐδέποτε14 of 23

have ye never

G3763

not even at any time, i.e., never at all

ἀνέγνωτε15 of 23

read

G314

to know again, i.e., (by extension) to read

ὅτι16 of 23
G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

Ἐκ17 of 23

Out of

G1537

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

στόματος18 of 23

the mouth

G4750

the mouth (as if a gash in the face); by implication, language (and its relations); figuratively, an opening (in the earth); specially, the front or e

νηπίων19 of 23

of babes

G3516

not speaking, i.e., an infant (minor); figuratively, a simple-minded person, an immature christian

καὶ20 of 23

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

θηλαζόντων21 of 23

sucklings

G2337

to suckle, (by implication) to suck

κατηρτίσω22 of 23

thou hast perfected

G2675

to complete thoroughly, i.e., repair (literally or figuratively) or adjust

αἶνον23 of 23

praise

G136

properly, a story, but used in the sense of g1868; praise (of god)


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 21:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 21:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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