Matthew 11:12 Commentary - Abbott's Illustrated New Testament

Verse 12

The meaning is, that, from the commencement of the preaching of John the Baptist, until the present time, great multitudes had come with the utmost zeal and ardor, desiring to be received into the kingdom of the Messiah.

Matthew 11:13-15. These verses perhaps contain the most direct intimation that Jesus was himself the Messiah which he had yet made. He always spoke of this subject with great reserve and caution.--That Elias which was for to come; that is, not Elijah himself in person, (John 1:21,) but the forerunner of Christ, who was designated by that name. (Luke 1:17.)

Matthew 11:16-19. The sentiment is, that the people of that generation were like wayward children, whom nothing would please. They were alike dissatisfied with the austere virtues and stern demeanor of John the Baptist, and with the mild and gentle character of the Savior.--Neither eating nor drinking; that is, practising rigid fasts and self-mortification.--Wisdom is justified, &c.; the truly wise would appreciate the wisdom of the course pursued both by John and by the Savior.