Religious Sign-Seekers
C. Lankester, B. A. Matthew 12:38 Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from you.… I. THAT THE DEMAND FOR ADDITIONAL ADVANTAGES GENERALLY COMES FROM THOSE ALREADYPOSSESSED OF VERY MANY. It was the scribes and Pharisees that made this request, not the publicans. II. GOD NEVER GIVES ADDITIONAL ADVANTAGES WHEN THOSE POSSESSED ARE NOT USED. Christ refused this demand (1) because it was merely an excuse for their rejection of Him; (2) because it was a reflection on Him; (3) because it bore no proof of earnestness; (4) because God's past dealings afforded all the proof requisite. III. FAILURE TO USE ALL THE ADVANTAGES WE POSSESS CAN ONLY ISSUE IN CONDEMNATION. The Ninevites would condemn the Jews. The ministry of Jonah was brief, wrathful, that of a sinful man. Christ's ministry was longer, and that of the Holy Son of God. The Queen of Sheba would condemn them. 1. She came to see and hear out of curiosity. 2. She came from afar. 3. She came uninvited. 4. She came on a mere report. (C. Lankester, B. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee. WEB: Then certain of the scribes and Pharisees answered, "Teacher, we want to see a sign from you."